Since May is #MentalHealthMonth we’re checking in. I’m still dealing with depression through a pandemic, too, and it hasn’t been easy. You’re not alone, nor are you your struggles, especially during this ongoing pandemic.
I’ve meant to write this for about three weeks now, but I was able to keep my mind occupied. Until the symbiote (I call depression) once again latched itself onto me, crept up, and found me.
Whenever we bury emotions, it manifests and festers; this is something that occurs when struggling with depression, whether we realize it or not. When asked, I describe it as a symbiotic toxin that lives in us, similar to that of Venom in Spider-Man. It seeps in, makes us feel ashamed or worse, and takes control of our thoughts to make us feel alienated. It’s no wonder depression is on the rise.
There’s a corresponding side to the good things in life, and depression is that for me.
Despite my anxiety and depression being on a roller coaster ride, I somehow found a balance during the pandemic.
Except currently, I’m in the midst of a spiral; feelings of paralyzing doubt and sadness are unavoidable. Not to mention the physical isolation and economic stress, which adds to my evolving symbiote.
Ten (even two) years ago, I wouldn’t have acknowledged my crippling emotional state; I’d let it overwhelmingly affect me.
Whereas now, my emotional involvement doesn’t shut down and off. I allowed myself to be emotionally vulnerable with my close friend, via text, while listening to my sad playlist/crying and then reading (which turned into a depression nap). Afterward, I realized the stress life, cabin fever, and uncertainty added to my depression relapse.
Now that I’ve been living with anxiety and depression for as long as I have, I understand it more. Ergo, I’m able to manage it so much better this time since I recognize it; instead of letting it overpower me, like usual, I allowed myself to feel all the feelings I’ve been trying to avoid.
So if you’re post-depression-spiral, below are some tips that can help.
- Acknowledge your feelings; isolating is difficult and the effects of loneliness take its toll. Recognizing it is a good first step.
- Reaching out and connecting with loved ones, whether it’s social media (but set a limit per day), email, texting, Zoom, FaceTime, etc. can make a massive difference and a mood changer.
- Be productive, whether it’s with work, hobbies, or chores. Keeping busy is essential; additionally, this is an unprecedented global crisis, so don’t feel guilty if you choose to do nothing.
- Keeping a structure can help, a schedule breakdown makes the day seem less daunting and gloomy.
- Take advantage of a daily walk outside (if you’re able to). Breaking up the monotony of the day by getting some air and vitamin D (use proper social distancing while WEARING A FACE MASK) can do wonders.
- Find something that sparks joy. Cooking/baking, coloring, gardening, whatever it is treat yourself to something that brings happiness.
Altogether, these tips can help but utilize free telehealth-based platforms such as Crisis Text Line.
Nevertheless, if you’re spiraling/overwhelmed, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
Also, call your primary care doctor to put you in contact with a mental health care professional (NAMI can help here too).
