Depression Support List, Part 1

A week ago, I read an article about various ways to celebrate your mental health in the new year.  The author explained the immense importance of surrounding our brains with wellness throughout the year.  He leaned into the importance of finding psychological balance.  

Since this has been heavy on my heart, I wanted to share an important list with you.  It was sent to me by one of my very best friends and is called a "Depression Support List For Me".  The first part of the list, as explained in this blog post, refers to how I can support myself through dark mental health moments.  And the second half of the list will be posted next week and is regarding how others can support me as I navigate these hard times.  

The importance of this list goes beyond words.  Its meaning includes every action that I take when I am not okay.  I know that when I am not mentally stable, I struggle to do the simple tasks in life.  And a list to remind me of what to do is a helpful tool.  
 

I believe that this serves as a guide to help both myself and others during times when we struggle the most with our mental health.  It is simple yet important to remember every small task during these troublesome times.  And to remember that we need to support our brains when they struggle to support themselves.  

I know when this was sent to me it was extremely informative and a good reminder to take one moment at a time when I am not well.  And I hope it is helpful for my readers, too.  May you breathe through each moment knowing that this is simply a chapter in your life, not your whole story. 


Depression Support List For Me

Hygiene
· Wash and brush my hair
· Put toothpaste on my toothbrush and brush my teeth
· Draw a bath or get a shower
· Wash and change sheets and bedding

Home Tasks
· Water the plants
· Make a list of home projects that need attention and ask for help to complete them
· Take a short walk outside or go to a park to breathe fresh air

Physical Health
· Go to bed at a decent hour
· Eat multiple small meals throughout the day for nutrition
· Take my medications and/or vitamins

Care Tasks
· Text or call a friend or family member just to say “hi”
· Have a cup of coffee or tea in the morning to start the day
· Plan something to do outside of the house
· Watch a silly television show or funny movie for light humor
· Learn breathing and relaxation techniques
· Know that it is okay to rest

Love Note: With all my heart, I genuinely request that due to the content written, please seek the guidance of professional help should you feel you need it.