Strange thing with approval/disapproval when I am in a depressive "down" phase.

To begin with approval, it does not matter as much as it should and as it usually in more balanced phases would! I seem to be more resistant to positive things, no matter what it actually is.

On the other side, disapproval comes in deep, as if the doors were wide open, as if they were welcome! And that in a situation when there is enough "negative"...

As I see it, while depressive, there is a self-damaging, self-hurting or self-downing process at work that I can hardly influence or operate. As in general, being depressive means to me being helpless in a way, being unable to control most things, including the depressed mood itself.

So my reaction usually is withdrawal from others who could stress me or, worse, hurt me when I am more vulnerable than ever.

Generally, I try to avoid any overflow of input, since I am not able to handle the normal levels of stimuli. So best thing has always been drawback to tranquility to give my mind a obviously necessary rest for recreation.

Simple approvals like hugs, pats on the shoulder, caressing, stroking are welcome and helpful, I found out - much more than any words.

bluenarciss