Why do you weep? Don’t you know that even the sun and moon will be darkened, and there will be times when you just can’t see? This is one on those seasons.
Getting through the valley will take time and effort, but don’t worry.
I will provide all the grace you need and I am here with you.
Before you feet stumble on the darkening hills,
Take my hand and hold on tight.
How do I know I am depressed? Do any of these sound like you?
_____ Feeling out of sync with the world, others and my normal routine
_____ Lack of energy/lethargy
_____ Emotional numbness/not caring
_____ Social withdrawal
_____ Insomnia
_____ Excess sleeping
_____ Crying
_____ Abnormal fatigue
_____ Daily feelings of worthlessness or guilt
_____ Difficulty concentrating
_____ Recurring feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
_____ More than minimum weight loss or gain
_____ Impaired reflexes
_____ Substance abuse
_____ Recurrent thoughts of death
_____ Suicide attempts
_____ Obsession/anxiety
_____ High sensitivity to criticism and rejection
_____ Mood swings
_____ Restlessness
_____ Agitation
_____ Irritability/anger
_____ Becoming overly active overly sexual
Suggestions to help you work through your depression:
Count your blessings
Start some form of fun exercise
Rework your budget so you’re not always stressed
Listen to beautiful, soothing and upbeat music everyday
Force yourself to socialize
Break up your routine
Rent a funny video
Buy someone a small gift (depression is very self-focused)
See a doctor to rule out biochemical problems
Move your furniture around
Clean a closet
Learn to set healthy boundaries so you are not a victim
Quit keeping secrets
Learn to be willing to lose in order to win
Sit and write a letter to God pouring out your heart
Eat chocolate