[convalescence]

Unsure of where to post this, but figured this would be a good place to start at least.

I want to see some tips on surviving depressive episodes from y’all.

One of my tips : use biodegradable dish ware / silver ware if washing the dishes is too difficult for you to keep up with.

[tentoedsloth]

Hi! I mostly suffer through them, and then forget them when they're over. I just wanted to say hi so this thread wouldn't be all alone, until some good answers come.
Edited: Sometimes deliberately smiling helps. It feels silly and insincere, and I mean doing it when you're alone, but often about 10 minutes later I realize I feel better.

That's not a survival tip and I think that's what you're looking for, but it's something.

[Skeezyks]

I just make myself do what has to be done. Having a routine is important in that regard. For the most part one day is about the same as another for me & I do pretty-much the same things each day. So I just follow my routine and make myself do whatever happens to come next. Typically, when I'm done, I feel at least a bit better. I'm also a proponent of the Buddhist practice of compassionate abiding which I often recommend to members here on MSF.

@convalescence:

Hi! I'm Jane. I'm no stranger to depression. My bipolar tends toward depression. I'm in one right now. One tip i have is to drink a meal replacement and premixed protein shake if meal preparation is too hard. Separately, of course, i find the protein shake can be a bit of a challenge to digest so i drink it on it's own later in the day when my stomach is stronger. I've been doing this for about two weeks now and my digestion is a lot better than when i was eating 100% junk for months. I'm still eating about 50% junk but at least it is better and i know i'm not malnourished. PM me if you want the brand names and most affordable store i recommend. I got the idea from a guy who is recovering from cancer and malnourishment due to chemo.

I also gave up on having fresh food in the house because it just goes bad before i eat it, especially leafy greens which are all the rage with dieticians and doctors. I struggled along with frozen veg for years but recently threw out two full bags when i cleaned out my freezer. Now i am experimenting with canned fruit and veg and so far so good, i like the fruit cocktail and sliced peaches and peas + carrots and corn and it's no big whoop if i screw-up and don't get to them for a few days or weeks.

I also find laundry becomes a crisis when depressed. So if i have several loads i just make a deal with myself that i will do one single load of mixed essentials and then things are better, i'm in clean clothes for a week and i don't get overwhelmed trying to do too much.

I also use disposable dishes too and am happy to meet someone else who has found this handy solution. It's not ideal but neither is my home becoming a health hazard.

Still searching for a solution to the showering crisis. I shaved my head over the Winter and that helped but it was ultimately too unattractive. I have a variety of hats i can wear in a pinch. I have greasy hair that looks unfresh if not washed everyday and i just can't keep up with it. Since it's so short i might try washing it at the sink tomorrow. Will let you know how it goes. Also, we have one member here who uses 'dry shampoo' and i might try that too. Will keep you posted.

For exercise, my goals are not very high, i live in a giant high-rise so i lapped the property three times yesterday. It's better than nothing.

What do you do for amusement? If my depression is really bothering me i can't even watch TV and just sit quietly looking out the window at the sky. The cloud formations are interesting and the light changes at sunset are cool.

Look forward to getting to know you! Don't be a stranger! Come on in, the water's fine!

[Nammu]

Have compassion for yourself, not pity, not disgust, not hate but compassion. Take care of your body by eating correctly, washing and cleaning your body as if it belongs to someone you care for a great deal. That means getting appropriate exercise and sun shine too. Treat your body to mind food too, coloring, watching cartoons or funny movies, read easy books, even children’s stories.

@convalescence:

I washed my hair at the kitchen sink today and it worked fine! Yay! No longer chained to the shower!

[Fuzzybear]

Originally Posted by Nammu

Have compassion for yourself, not pity, not disgust, not hate but compassion. Take care of your body by eating correctly, washing and cleaning your body as if it belongs to someone you care for a great deal. That means getting appropriate exercise and sun shine too. Treat your body to mind food too, coloring, watching cartoons or funny movies, read easy books, even children’s stories.

Good post. Compassion... not pity, disgust or hate for self. Compassion

[neverending]

I try to get myself to use an adult sticker book or an easy coloring book just to pass the time. It doesn't require much effort.

I too use disposable dishes. And microwave meals.

My cat helps me too.

[Nammu]

Yes, pets are wonderful companions. My cat is great.

don't set your standards too high and set yourself up for a disappointyment later on.

it will just make it worse

and have a big loud burp once in a while.

good for you