We recently wrote a blog post about how to cope with depression symptoms, but what do you do when your symptoms decrease and you’ve learned how to overcome depression (or at least how to use tools to manage it)?
It’s actually a very tricky time for people trying to overcome depression. You think you’ve put in enough work and are feeling better, only to relapse due to not having the right support systems in place. Think of someone who struggles with alcohol abuse. They stop drinking, and suddenly think, “I can just have one.” But old habits die hard, which also means the recovery process can be a long road.
Therefore, it’s essential to keep up your treatment plan, long after you start seeing signs of improvement in your symptoms. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can find/keep hope, improve relationships, overcome depression, and get your life back.
Counseling for Depression
One of the most effective ways to get over depression is through counseling. Counseling can help you identify the underlying causes of your depression, develop coping skills, and explore ways to improve your mood. A counselor can also provide support and guidance as you navigate the ups and downs of recovery.
If you’re struggling with depression, it’s essential to seek help from a licensed mental health professional. You can ask your primary care doctor for a referral or search for a therapist in your area online. Many therapists offer virtual counseling sessions, which can be more convenient for people with busy schedules or limited mobility.
Cornerstone Christian Counseling offers online counseling sessions, which can be more convenient for people with busy schedules or limited mobility.
Improving Relationships
First, try to communicate openly and honestly with the people in your life. Let them know how you’re feeling and what they can do to support you. It’s also essential to be patient and understanding with yourself and others. Recovery takes time, and it’s okay to take things slow and focus on self-care.
Another way to improve relationships is to focus on positive interactions. Make time for activities you enjoy, spend time with people who uplift you, and practice gratitude. These small actions can make a big difference in your mood and relationships.
Getting Your Life Back
Depression can rob you of your energy, motivation, and enthusiasm for life. However, with time and effort, you can regain your sense of purpose and passion. Here are a few tips for getting your life back after depression:
- Set small goals: Break down larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. Celebrate your progress along the way, and be patient with yourself.
- Practice self-care: Take care of your physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious foods, exercise regularly, and practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
- Stay connected: Stay in touch with friends, family, and support groups. Join a club or organization that interests you, and make new connections.
- Embrace new experiences: Try new activities, hobbies, or interests. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and explore new possibilities.
If you’re currently struggling to overcome depression, remember that it’s a journey. It requires patience, perseverance, and a great support system. Depression counseling can be a valuable resource for those trying to overcome depression. Improving relationships and getting your life back may take time, but it’s worth the effort. Remember, there is hope after depression, and you’re not alone. Contact us to schedule a counseling session, and take the first step towards a brighter future.
FIND A CHRISTIAN THERAPIST
Research shows that much of the change people experience during their time in therapy is because they felt heard and understood by their therapist–that their therapist “got them” and that the guidance they gave was relevant and applicable. Because of this, it is critical that you find a therapist whom you can connect with, whom you feel comfortable with, whom you feel “gets you.” Therefore, we encourage you to take a few minutes to read a little about each one of our therapists. If you prefer to look at the counselors nearest to you, please click the office location buttons below. Otherwise, you can meet with any of our Christian Counselors online from the comfort of your own home. If you have questions about any of them, please contact us!
