Coping with Depression

If you've ever wanted to learn more about clinical depression, join me on the blog in the next few weeks while I dive into this topic! I'll be covering common symptoms, practical coping skills, and different forms of depression. Last week we covered an outline of clinical depression, and today is all about coping skills. Keep reading to better understand how to find the right coping skills for you! For a personalized approach to clinical depression, connect with Wingate Counseling for a free consultation.

Do I have to take prescription medications for depression?

When people think of depression treatment, they might default to prescription medication as the only form of relief. While taking anti-depression medicines may be helpful, it's not for everyone. The term "anti-depression" doesn't just mean a pill. An anti-depression is anything that helps ease the symptoms of depression. Whether or not you decide not to take prescription medication, it's essential to connect with a therapist to optimize your treatment of depression.

What are coping skills?

Coping skills are the strategies we use to help ease the pain. Some common coping skills for depression include mindfulness, exercise, journaling, connection, self-love, and other positive lifestyle changes. These skills address the root cause and painful symptoms of depression. For instance, if someone's root cause of depression is "feeling like a doormat," they need to develop coping skills around assertive communication. It's important to note that not all coping skills are healthy or helpful in the long run. Coping through self-harm or binge drinking might numb the pain for a while but ultimately cause more complications.

What coping skills are the most effective?

We are all different; what works for one person might not help someone else. With this in mind, the best coping skills are the ones you will use. An easy way to figure out if a coping skill works for you is to try it! Another tip when finding the right coping skill is to consider doing the opposite of what your depression wants. For example, if depression says to stay in bed all day, try using movement as a form of coping (e.g., going for a short walk outside). This essentially helps "break up" the depression cycle.

How long do I have to use a coping skill before it starts to work?

I recommend picking one coping skill and doing it consistently for a few weeks. This gives you a chance to really see if this skill works for you. Keep in mind that good things take time! You might be tempted to make big goals to manage depression symptoms. While this seems helpful at first, making unattainable goals can make us feel worse in the long run. Remember, it's better to start small and stay realistic to avoid getting overwhelmed. Instead of hosting a dinner party to combat isolation, start with a FaceTime date with a supportive friend. Small actions done consistently add up to big results!

Takeaway

Remember, there is no "one size fits all" approach to coping with depression. It's important to find a coping skill that is meaningful and manageable for you! Mental well-being is complex, and you don't have to navigate it alone. Try working with a therapist to develop a personalized symptoms management plan. Learning healthy ways to cope with depression ultimately frees you up to live a fuller life! If you are ready to start your personalized strategy, connect with Wingate Counseling for a free consultation.