[BPgf]

I know that everybody experiences and reacts to depression differently, so this question probably answers itself, but I wanted to inquire of depression sufferers anyway...

When depressed, do you seek out or take advantage of distractions to make yourself feel better or forget how lousy you feel (even if only temporarily)?

I ask because a loved one of mine seems to be doing this in the midst of what has become a 10-month episode. It seems counterintuitive to the idea of depression, in which isolation and avoidance are the stereotype. Yet the things she is doing and the people she is spending time with are completely out of the norm for her, and in some cases the opposite of her tastes. Almost like an identity crisis. Meanwhile, she has simultaneously distanced herself from the couple people in her life she was closest with and most trusting of (one of which being me, sadly). But outwardly, she must seem completely normal and happy to those who wouldn't know much better... perhaps that's the point.

I know I'm all over the place here, I apologize. Needless to say this causes me much pain and confusion. Any insight or similar experiences would be appreciated.

Thank you.

[TheOriginalMe]

I spent about 18 months in denial at the start of my last episode. I did lots of impulsive things and generally tried to avoid the intense pain that I was going through. I pushed every one I could away from me because I didn't want to risk them abandoning me.

[BPgf]

So you didn't act socially or make new friends or anything to that affect in order to distract yourself?

[*Laurie*]

When I'm truly depressed just being able to watch a TV show is a challenge. I can't really do much else...I manage to care for my pets and usually can do basic household chores.

[TheOriginalMe]

Originally Posted by BPgf

So you didn't act socially or make new friends or anything to that affect in order to distract yourself?

I avoided social contact but I found PC instead. I would never have joined an online forum or made online friends if I hadn't been looking for a distraction. At times I would get really anxious if I couldn't get online to "talk" to my PC friends and the distraction that I got from that almost became an obsession in itself. I did value the people irl who stuck by me even though I kept very distant. Keep letting your friend know that you are there for her when she is ready.

[StillIntending]

Back in late May/early June, I decided to start watching anime whenever I was really depressed. Suicidal? Watch an episode. Depressed? Another episode.
I have completed five series since then and am working on a sixth.
So yes, I think I have used this as a distraction, almost pathologically at times. Distractions aren't always the best course of action, but sometimes I think it is better to ignore the depressing feelings than to let them take control over you, if only to give your emotions a break for a while.

[francisR]

hi BPgf

Yes I do find distraction very helpful with depression and anxiety. Filling the day with activities simply does crowd out symptoms. But as has been said, it is just a help and not a cure. You still need a good medication and therapy. Perhaps just trying to connect with her whenever you can would be best. I hope and pray this will work out well for you in the future. Take care. God bless and best wishes from your friend Francis

[logan29]

Just as no two people are affected the exact same way by depression, there is no “one size fits all” treatment that cures depression. What works for one person might not work for another. The best way to treat depression is to become as informed as possible about the treatment options to meet your needs. Lifestyle changes are simple but powerful tools in treating depression. Sometimes they might be all you need. Even if you need other treatment, lifestyle changes go a long way towards helping lift depression. And they can help keep depression at bay once you are feeling better.
You can also try some natural therapy for depression such as set your routine exercise, set goal, eat healthy , get enough sleep and etc .