[SlatkaMala]

I am having a huge problem with motivation. Everything feels like it is a huge chore and impossible. Logically, I know that these things like simple chores or cleaning aren't a big deal, but my depression addled brain just makes it seem like I'm trying to climb bloody Mt. Everest!

Do you all have any ideas on how to break through this?

[lynn P.]

Perhaps taking things in small steps rather than lumping everything that needs doing together. If it seems like a mountain, then you won't get the motivation. Make a list of a couple of small jobs each day and do them before you do something pleasurable - I do this to myself sometimes - treat myself like a child lol by saying, for example - "no computer until I clean the dishes" You can also give yourself a day off where you don't do anything and don't feel guilty.

[Rohag]

Motivation? M-o-t-i-v-a-t-i-o-n. No clue; I'm going to have to go look that up...

Originally Posted by SlatkaMala

Logically, I know that these things like simple chores or cleaning aren't a big deal, but my depression addled brain just makes it seem like I'm trying to climb bloody Mt. Everest!

Exactly!

Originally Posted by lynn P.

Perhaps taking things in small steps...

This is how I approach things, and in my case they can be ridiculously small steps. For example, in trying to keep the sink clear of dishes, I usually deal with 2-4 utensils/dishes at a time. As I meander in and out of the kitchen, I often can clean out the sink over the course of an evening working this way. In other words, I rely on my impulsiveness to accomplish the task over time without imposing a set pace of work, which, for me, is a lost cause.

Even with that, I become easily overwhelmed just thinking about things to do. So, I try not to think constantly about the "whole" and wait for the "waves" to carry me forward
s l o w l y . . .

No. I am no longer a fully functioning member of society.

[Elana05]

Hi SlatkaMala,

I suffer from this too. I like (a little) caffeine so sometimes a small afternoon cup of black tea helps me to have a little boost. But lately it just got too bad so I went the medication route and I'm hoping it will help... Are you taking any medication now? The reason I ask is that some have lethargy as a side effect.
I guess if the exhaustion is around cleaning I will say to myself "I am going to put only 3 items of clothing away." Or, "I will was only 2 dishes." After that I usually will wash just a couple more or put maybe 5 items of clothing away. But I have to say the exhaustion problem with depression is certainly hard. So I'm mostly focused on trying to treat that, I guess.
Sending many supportive thoughts your way...
E

[madisgram]

i try to do just a little at a time. no big projects, too overwhelming. i just weather out the storm. best thing, imho, is to avoid fretting over it for now. it'll just add to the depression and agitation.