I've noticed at least three posts in this sub in the last few weeks with the themes of feeling depressed, lost, lonely and a lack of purpose. As someone who gets deep bouts of depression from time to time, this breaks my heart that others suffer the same way.
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I wanted to share how I fight my depression and suicidal ideations, as well as get other Redditor's strategies that have worked. This shouldn't be taken as professional advice, and while I and many other Redditors are always happy to talk if you want someone who can listen, I would recommend seeing a doctor if your depression or anxiety is getting the best of you.
My (M30) depression is slow and anxious. I often don't notice it until I'm home alone thinking about how to kill myself or about who would care. I used to believe I could think myself out of it, but it was mentally and emotionally draining. A few years ago I began treating it like any other illness or injury. The first step is to remove myself or take a break from any environment that might be triggering the depression or anxiety. I then make sure I'm physically healthy, getting enough sleep, drinking enough water, eating healthy and getting enough exercise. I make sure I have spent time with friends that week. I go for a walk. I listen to music that chills me out. And I treat myself to something special, like a movie by myself or icecream in my backyard for breakfast. I usually power through work but I have taken time off a few times to recover from anxiety attacks. I might also cut myself off from my family for a day (my mum loves to call and is very intense) though I often find myself spending several hours on the phone with one of my parents by the end of it. I have only spoken to a doctor about my depression once but my dad has a few degrees in psychology and we talk often. If I found that my depression or anxiety was getting the best of me I would see a doctor pretty quickly.
As for prevention, I have found having a purpose helps a ton. You don't find a purpose, you pick one, and you can change it whenever you want. I decided I wanted to teach and I wanted to run as fast as I could. When my goals are achieved or become unachievable, I set new goals. The depression still comes but I am mindful of it and it kind of is just there. A 15k run is still a 15k run whether I'm depressed or not, and that goes a long way to feeling better.
Please, what strategies have helped you?