Three Ways I Cope With Depression

Depression comes and it goes. When it comes it can derail me in an instant. It makes sticking to plans difficult. It makes connecting with family and friends uncomfortable. It makes doing things that I normally enjoy doing very hard.

Over the years though, I have been able to cope a bit better with some of my depressive episodes and I wanted to share three tips with all of you that might be suffering.

1. Stock your toolbox. Yup, get an actual toolbox or a bag and stuff it with things that you can take comfort in... a fun pen and notebook, a face mask, Starbucks gift card, your favorite candy... Put the box in your closet and know that it is there for you to utilize when your depression hits. Almost like a jumpstart car kit. This is to bring you back in touch with yourself and the things you love.

2. I made a list as part of a training that I took where we had to come up with 100 things we loved about ourselves. I came up with probably 15 or so. I encourage you to make a list and then get it out and look at it when your mood is low. Read it aloud. Repeat the things you wrote.

3. Get out your stock of greeting cards, notecards, stamps and address book and write some gratitude mail. I enjoy this exercise and find that this form of connection seems safe and doable even when I'm depressed. Just saying hello, how are you and maybe including a positive affirmation would feel good for you and the recipient.

That's what I have for now...

She took a deep breath and let it go...