The Countdown

When going through a bout of depression, it can be hard to get out of bed. There is no intrinsic motivation to do anything. I’ve gone through something like that this past week. It isn’t uncommon, at all. It is not something to be ashamed of. 

Here is what is helping me to get back on track. I count down from 5 (4, 3, 2, 1…) and when I get to zero I take some action (however small) that will improve my situation. This could mean getting out of bed, making my bed, writing out an email, etc. And then slowly, momentum builds back in a positive direction. Action is the antidote to despair. 

These days, things can feel really dark. Sometimes the best thing that you can do is talk to someone. If you’re going through depression, you’re not alone. If you need to talk to someone immediately for fear of harming yourself and you’re in the US, dial 1-800-273-8255. 

We are going to get through this bleak time in history, and when we do, I believe things will have changed for the better – ourselves included. Keep taking small steps to make things better, or at least to stop making things worse. Be well everyone! I am back.