Break The Cycle Of Loneliness and Depression
Life is full of many things that brings on a feeling of loneliness and depression. Major changes like breakups, losing a job, losing a friend and even death of a loved one can bring on a strong feeling of defeat. Many people withdraw when faced with these types of major change. We tend to go into a protective shell. We no longer want to share our feelings or turmoil with others. Instead, we internalize our sadness which creates a sense of separation and loneliness. Prolonged periods of isolation can turn into depression where we no longer have physical energy, can't think of positive aspects of life and can't envision a happy future.
If you are coping with any of these major changes, you're not alone. To break the downward spiral there are things you can do. The following is a list of how to break it slowly and re-engage in life.
- Make a daily schedule - Wake up at a designated time, add a few "to do" items. Work to complete each item, giving yourself plenty of time. When you finish you're day you feel better that you accomplished something. As the days go by add 1 more item to the list a day.
- Keep a journal or diary - Write your thoughts, feelings and experience daily. This is where you let everything out. Get it out of your system and into your journal. Keep your journal in a safe place where no one can access it. At the end of every entry be sure to write a wish. Write a positive thing you want to experience.
- Exercise - Do some form of body movement everyday. Start with small increments of time and increase it by minutes each day. Exercise has a profound effect on the emotions. When we exercise our body releases "happy" hormones called Dopamine and Seratonin. Dance, yoga, walking, stretching are all body movements that get these hormones producing.
- Give to others - Volunteer or donate time, resources or money. When we give to others, especially when we are in need, it creates an energy of reciprocity. Although we may not get back from the person/thing we initially give to, we do get back. Giving breaks the feeling of isolation and stagnation. It connects us to life again.
- Find a Support Network - If you don't have friends or family that are supportive, find a support group. With the internet there are ways to connect to others going through the same thing as you. Talk with them, chat with them. You can also find support groups through local churches, newspaper listings and even hospitals.
- Identify your passion - Find out what makes your fire of passion light. Think back to happier times and things you loved doing. Start doing little things to fulfill that passion. It can be as simple as reading, cooking, animals. When you know what you're passionate about seek groups or classes to get involved with to fulfill your passion.
Don't give up! Everyday you will take a step forward and before you know it you will feel connected to life again and your sadness will fade.
I used to run my own horse facility until 10 years ago. Four years ago I had to let go of my own horses and have missed it. With life's challenges I thought it impossible to have that passion fulfilled. Now I volunteer at a Horse Rescue a few times a week. Whether I'm grooming the horses, cleaning or finding ways to raise money, I get so much satisfaction from helping and being involved in these special creatures survival.
If you need help breaking the cycle of loneliness or sadness, call me, I'm here to help! 1-800-275-5336 ext bvision (2841466)
Blessings,
Bernadette Dickinson
(c) 2009