I don't know about your situation and the extent of what you're going through. I send you my best wishes and want to let you know that you are not alone.

Since I'm not in a position to offer advice, I can just say what helps me. It might not work for everyone.

For me, I find that motivation and confidence build on accomplishments, however small. Each accomplishment can be a baby step towards a bigger goal. Even if I have a lot to do, at the start of the day, I set myself three concrete and bite-size tasks to finish. If I finish at least two, I feel like I can actually do things. I feel more confident about myself. That motivates me.

For example, I try to do least one (or two) small thing daily when I'm at an *absolute* low. I take it day by day. When I get through the day, I consider it a victory! Some small, achievable tasks (for me) are:

• Eat something that isn't store-bought, microwavable junk food. My meal can be as simple as some frozen broccoli that I thaw in the microwave and top with some shredded cheddar. Maybe some salt and pepper if I'm feeling fancy. :P
• Shower. I will drag myself to the shower, inch by inch if necessary. I like using lavender body wash because it soothes me.
• Go outside for a few minutes, whether it's a ten minute walk or just leaving my apartment to fetch the mail.
• Contact someone. It could be as simple as a text to say that I'm thinking of them. Or a call. Or a dinner date. Depression, for me, feeds off isolation. That turns to alienation.

You can start very, very small. For me, doing a small thing is better than looking at a long list and fretting about how much there is to be done (and then doing nothing). Through baby steps, you are making progress towards a bigger set of goals. The more progress you make, the better you will feel about yourself. Of course, a self-care plan is important too,whether you craft that yourself or with the help of a mental health professional. That will provide you with more fuel.

The less I do, the more hopeless and useless I feel. Then I spiral downwards into a vicious cycle, ruminate too much, and beat myself up. That saps me of my energy.

I send you my best wishes. I've just listed a laundry list of things that work for me (even if a little at times). Your case might be very different. So if you'd like to brainstorm about specific things (or just rant), I'm here for you!