7 Tips To Survive A Depressive Episode
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- Опубліковано 27 чер 2024
- Depressive episodes can completely change how you function.
From isolation to depriving yourself of things that feel good, from constant sleeping to insomnia, from lethargy to excessive energy.
Whatever your specific experiences, life just seems to grind to a halt during a depressive episode.
But that doesn't have to be the norm for you, and I'm going to talk through how to change it for yourself.
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Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a replacement for receiving treatment. It is purely educational in nature. My relationship with you is that of presenter and audience, not therapist and client.
But I do care.
1. Food - disposable plates reduce cleaning up
2. Get easily made simple meals like family sized lasagne's that you can put in the microwave.
3. Meal replacement shakes
4. Set up your zone. Bed, couch. Have the things you need for your depression within reach. Drawing materials, notebooks, books.
5. Move stuff away from you that is not good for you
6. Set up your meds in advance
7. Tell people you are experiencing a depressive episode - safe and supportive people, not assholes
8. Try to reach out to others.
9. Screen time limits.
10. Get out of bed at least once a day, If you don't you will wreck your sleep cycle.
Keep a toothbrush, bottle of water and cup with lid next to your bed. Helps with dental.
Baby wipes instead of showers.
Open your window for a bit if you can't get outside.
Baby foods (wet and dry) are great snacks when can't chew.
Bottled waters or drinks/pop next to bed.
Keep pedal bin size bags near bed, helps keep mess located.
Bed rest or elderly exercise videos to still get movement.
Bed or chair stretches/yoga to help aches.
Comfortable PJs & blankets etc.
I'm in one right now. It's very obvious my self care is lacking. Today at work my I said something to my boss half jokingly. My boss is very good with little digs in his douche manner and I heard back ..." yeah and look where it got you " . Told me in a nutshell exactly how he sees me and what he perceives my value. I'm hoping its the jolt I need to get going again.
Basic hygiene stuff takes so much time and energy…like showering, drying my hair, brushing my teeth, putting on makeup, getting dressed and gathering stuff to be ready to go outside. I feel exhausted before I even get out the door - that I have to rest to restore my mental & physical energy reserves. It’s a big accomplishment when I’ve managed to do basic self care…curiously, I seem to have more energy cleaning the kitchen than I do myself. 🤷🏻♀️🤣😂 Thank God for my dog-I get up and out for him-regardless of the state I’m in. The idea of him suffering because of me is enough to put fire under me…but basic self care (or the lack of it) is a huge indicator isn’t it?
Yes, the last depressive episode I went through, I lost 30 lbs because I lived on bagged salad. I felt nauseated and cold all the time. I felt like I had a hole in the middle of my body, I just couldn’t get warm and stayed in my pajamas in front of the heater for days. After this episode I asked my husband if he didn’t see I was depressed? He replied,well you were still sewing. Really? We’ve been married 50 years and he couldn’t see something was wrong. You have helped me so much and this pod cast is the best. If you have had one depressive episode you will have another even if it’s 10-20 years later.
He is probably depressed too as most spouses mirror each other. Perhaps you should be kind and.let him know how you are feeling rather than expect him to read your mind. ❤ Also, seek help because he is not a clinical PhD so what do you expect him to say or do to help you? You are lucky, he is still around you.
@@lovelytouch9366little harsh isn't it? You have no clue about that person nor his/her spouse do you?
Spouses help each other more often than doctors by a long shot. Lay off Cynthia.
@@leahzaloudek6978
Idk who Cynthia is lol. I agree but you went in pretty strong on a stranger. Yes?
I think the first replier was only matching the energy of the original commenter.
Not necessarily being cold or heartless.
Original comment seemed a bit blame-y in the way that she expected something from her husband that he, for whatever reason doesn't matter, couldn't give her.
The response comment offered a suggestion to seek out someone more qualified to help her.
My husband and I have had a similar talk. I think, based on my own subjective experience and conversations with other women, that wives can generally rely too much on their spouses. like expect too much from them.
After 2 years of only bringing my depression and trauma/issues to my husband, and realizing I was not progressing after we would talk, I decided to get professional therapy. It not only helped myself, but took some weight off of my husband. So, it was good for both of us.
Spouses can only help so much. And mine is great, he's been so good to me through it all. But I became aware that I was exceeding his capacity, and I care about his well-being too.
I think it's better to view marriage as a partnership. It is good for an individual to take an honest account, like recognize when there is an imbalance in the relationship and be solution minded.
More transparency, more honesty.
My opinion though, take or leave.
Peace
That's it! "My soul needs to rest for a month".
I am going through a depressive episode. Both my parents died the past year so I know that is a HUGE part of it. My anxiety is through the roof. I can’t get out of bed, cry all the time, my hygiene is not the best, and am having episodes of binge eating. I don’t want to leave my house, and pretty much live in my bedroom. Taking my meds is so hard to do, barely able to take care of my dog. I am always exhausted. I’ve been cancelling my therapist appointments. I have to tell her and my psychiatrist how much worse it’s gotten the last month. These are the times when my parents, especially my mom would help me. I’ve suffered depression since my teens and she was always there to help me. My life is so complicated now because I’m barely functioning. And I feel I have no one now that my parents are both gone. I miss them so much all I can feel is despair.
One day at a time….
Been there when my dad passed
Sending you so much love ❤
i am so sorry about your parents...this is traumatic.. I live in my bedroom too.. i lost my family as well as my husband to brain cancer and brother to suicide a few years back and I hate that you have this on top of your depression.. wish i could be there with you right now
Talk to your therapist and psychiatrist. I have been talking to mine recently on the phone while in a depressive episode. Having them available and supportive was helpful. I took my meds and reached out to a lot of people. I let people know that I was anxious and depressed. I asked them to pray for me too. use all of your resources. Prayers for you.
I had all sorts of catastrophes happen in the last 3 years as well. I quit my job, curse a lot because it expresses how I feel, started a fitness class, focus on what is healthy for me (avoid alcohol, people that don't really care about me, eat healthier foods, go out in the sun, make sure to bathe daily, etc). Do whatever it is you are able to do for YOU. Do more as you are able to and survive. I am doing better just because I decided to focus on me for real. Things have not changed drastically but I do feel better even though I am depressed, cry a lot, get anxiety attacks, etc. Despite all of that things are better because I am making it better step by step by step. I wish you the very best and be kind and loving to yourself.
You forgot a very very helpful tip! Have a Dr Scott playlist ready to go and listen to all the episodes in a loop!
I am the opposite with food. I stop planning healthy meals and i start eating unhealthy foods like sweets. I also stop exercising so its a double whammy. The cold winter months are hard for most of us. Hang in there and be gentle on yourself.
“My soul needs to rest” ❤️
yea agree
This is the first time I hear someone describe the feelings so accurately.. severe depression episodes makes you feel kind of, crippled.. your soul is exhausted.. you feel empty, detached from yourself, demotivated to do anything.. these tips can really help pull someone out if it a bit faster .. if it's just an hour sooner, it's worth it
I can’t wait to get out of this life, really looking forward to escaping. I’ve hated life since 18 years old, I’ve around 20 years to go, can’t believe I’ve got this far, every bad experience makes life worse and worse… thank god life does have an end. I sincerely hope after I die it’s like an eternal sleep, no dreams, nothing. I don’t want any consciousness even if positive. Nil.
Exactly my thoughts. I want eternal sleep. My whole life is been a struggle with depression . You are not alone at this.
💯 🔥 🔥 🔥
Except I want to feel the relief death will bring, but I won't feel it.
I understand how you feel. I think you will be able to choose.....❤❤❤
There's nothing. After life is an ego wish.
I don’t tell people about being depressed because I feel ashamed of it. 😢
I wouldn't tell everyone but hopefully someone who cares about you will not shame you for it. A lot of people understand the struggle. ❤
I hear you, but there's nothing to be ashamed of. This is a real illness and not your fault. You've found the strength to tell people on here that you have depression. That in itself is a big step.
You are right Not to Tell the whole World!! But no reason to feel ashame. It is Not your fault❤
Sorry
I used to feel the same, but I only started to get better when I be able to told my best friend. Try to choose one person to open up about it
Sometimes forcing yourself to move about helps,even walk about house,and if you find it hard to do anything, just tell yourself to take even one step towards it.
Caught this as I'm sinking 3 months after a layoff. Depression + something to be depressed about is a double whammy.... then add winter! Thx.
🐛Get signed up for EMT classes 👉reinvent yourself 👉you can do it🦋♥️
People don't check on me anymore, nor do they try to get me to go anywhere. I reach out to them less and less but I'm still the half that reaches out and that bothers me and adds even more to my depression.
I feel your pain.
Same
Yeah especially as you grow older and as you lose family members.
I used to post clear cries for help on FB. I stopped doing that when the only feedback I got was, “your post affected me negatively and here’s me shaming you for it.” I am very selective about whom I reached out to as most people only care about someone’s mental health after it’s too late.
@@Clown_Wizard I'm sorry for how they responded to you. I couldn't imagine being so heartless.
One thing I especially appreciate is that you speak from reality. Not a book you read, or a weekend seminar you attended last month. You understand the problems. Your ideas have worked for you. I hope that I can heal enough to help others too. Although it seems unlikely, I keep running into more layers. I'm told CPTSD is like that.
I'm coming out of a depressive episode but I can't feel better knowing that it can come back so soon. These are so helpful, thank you so much.
Can understand what you say. There is the fear that depression comes back. Because we feel so overwhelmed by it. I feel the same and maybe I am in a similar situation. I try to „turn to my depression“ and understand it better. All the best to you!
Seasonal Affective disorder?
I’ve told friends I am depressed & I am immediately dismissed as “you gotta figure this out.” Gee, thanks!
That's what my family does. This is especially annoying when I think about how practically every therapist I tried talking to emphasizes how I need to find a support system in my life. Like, I'm paying you to help me figure things out, don't make me put my problems on my friends and family even more.
It's hard for people who have never really been deep in their cups to understand someone suffering from major depression.
'least they didn't just straight up tell you "You are not depressed. Stop pretending." I knew someone like that once. Never spoke to them ever again.
When I was fresh out of break-up, I didn't want to eat but I remember watching Lumma say that eating is very important because it will just make you feel worse if you let your body starve. So even though I had no energy to eat, I still ate. I ate my normal amount because I didn't want my healing to take longer.
Man, your first suggestion of getting paper plates made me feel seen. I definitely struggle to make myself do the dishes in a timely fashion, which spirals into not wanting to cook because there's no clean dishes and the sink is too full.
I usually eat standing in the kitchen so I make myself put things directly in the dishwasher without ever putting them in the sink.
I took early retirement to work on my own overall health. So far so good. This channel is a big help. Thank you. 😊
I am considering that as well. But I cannot decide. I live in Switzerland, had a good job with a good insurance but I burned out.
So, now I am 47, getting "half" a disability pension, which means I am supposed to work 50%, or look for work at least.
Considering my mental development it should not be a problem to get the full pension, which would mean a little more money (not twice as much - the difference is not that important), but I would be free in the sense that nobody would expect me to work or at least look for it.
Somehow I just don't see myself in a work place anymore, on the other hand it feels like being defeated if you accept that you are unable to contribute to society anymore.....
I guess it will be figured out by itself. Eventually it will be checked if I still need the half pension and during that evaluation they will either deem me fit for work, 50% fit or unfit.....
So, why speed up what eventually happens...
Edit: Americans probably cannot relate that it is an option to just live off the welfare state at already 47.
But it is not that common and it certainly wouldn't be an option if I had a family and all that. But I struggled with depression since I can remember. So ending up as a welfare case always was something I dreaded but also something I was glad to be able to rely on when the shit really hits the fan... And during my work I paid a lot into the system, so it's not unfair to also get something out of it.....
Same with health insurance, you never want to use it. But if you have to you are glad you have been paying for it all the time....
And no, neither a proper health insurance or a healthy welfare state has anything to do with communism. This is Switzerland, where all the money is stored.
Would you store your money in a socialist country?
Don't think so 😊
I’m honored to be a part of your plan ❤️
@@Kingcobra6699
I hear you. I've had depression since adolescence. I had a very long (2 year) depressive episode 10 years ago (at 55 yo), and finally had to go on disability because I wasn't able to do my job (or much of anything else) any more.
It was the best decision for me. I now work on maintaining my health as best I can. I still have depressive episodes, longer and more frequently than I'd prefer. But I no longer have the burden of expectations of a boss & colleagues to wrestle with. I have time to try to get enough sleep, eat reasonably well, etc. Thanks to Medicare, I am on meds & talk to a therapist regularly.
I struggled with the "contributing to society" issue for awhile, but I also had paid into the system for 40 years.
Now I contribute to society by doing (limited) volunteer work. I have to be careful not to over-commit, though! My enthusiasm to help others typically outstrips my personal resources, and I don't want to let people down by having to quit if I get too drained or overwhelmed.
Best wishes ❤
Sometimes when iv told certain people... they actually distance themselves.
You are finding out who your true friends are. That's a GOOD thing. The most important friend that you have is YOU.. Hugs and love to you! 💖🙏🤗🦋🦋🦋
@maggiethecat1538 Thank you. That's such a sweet message. 💙 🙏
Thank you. You are the best therapist. Some of us don't even have the energy to thank you. I know I speak for many. Thank you.
So life day in and day out
Exactly. I feel the same..
Add me to the list
Yeah I think this is geared towards people with episodic rather than chronic depression
I battle depression every single day of my rotten life. All my dreams and goals have never been met, and I'm just melting into death. Trying to keep a smile on my face for everybody around me. And not to complain or blame them for ruining my life, even though they did.
That part
I know how it feels. 😢
You articulate my feelings to a T! Cat's out of the bag now for us, huh😅 hope you feel better soon 🙏
I understand you! Hugs!
I'm so sorry for your feeling so bad. I'm very sad that if they have done things to ruin your life, you are holding on to misery for them? You're very articulate, you deserve to feel anger and to make changes for yourself and your happiness. I know that is terrifying and paralyzingly difficult 🫂🫂
I have had severe depressive episodes that have lasted for years. I wish that nobody else ever had to feel like this, but at the same time I feel like I am not alone and you get it. I've been watching your channel and get more help here that I ever have from in person therapy.
When you mentioned paper plates, it was clear you understand. Normally when I am in a depressive state I use that trick because a disgusting kitchen makes my depression worse and then my inner voice says you are living like an animal, because who can't wash dishes? From your video where you talked about celebrating your victories and changing that voice in your head, I heard, yay! you are understanding that you are in a depressive state and you are taking care of yourself.
Thank you. You make the world of difference to me and it is very appreciated.
Thank you Dr. Scott, I am in a depressive episode right now, since yesterday. I needed this! You are amazing!
same here and i am already feeling worse about the insomnia because ive been sleeping all day and now i have been up since yesterday. I hate this so much.. for all of us
Sorry to hear that, truly hope this helps!
@@DrScottEilers it is, thank you, I am out of bed, did eat and took a shower. Thank you again, you're truly a blessing!
My biggest issue with eating when I'm struggling is that I don't have the mental capacity to decide what to eat. The result is that I either eat nothing or I grab the closest (and usually least healthy) option available. I live much of my life in extremes. Moderation is not a realistic option for me. I'm sure my mental health would be much better if I could.
My issue with friends is that I have had several over the years who have profess to care and understand and "want to be there for me", but when it comes time, they inevitably let me down. I know...get better friends, right? But after this happens repeated, you lose your ability to believe in people. This leaves me friendless, but sometimes I think it's the safest place for me.
thank you for this video. i have been stuck in this i dont even know what to call it ever since a traumatic incident happened to me months ago. i wanna move on but somethings holding me back so here i am stuck, try to just live day by day, enjoy good emotions when it comes and ride the bad ones out slowly to not having it drown me. whoever seeing this message, please know youre not alone. im in this too, a lot of us are..
Thx. I feel very alone 😢
@@elainebezak7158 It's really hard to be alone so much of the time. We aren't alone in that there are so many also going through this terrible ordeal too.
I’m a middle aged autistic female. I find that being around anyone other than my husband (my person) can send me into a depressive spiral. I find small talk and just talk in general to be empty and draining. As though a Dementor is sucking my soul out of me. I don’t know how to be around others and protect myself. This unfortunately means that I’m unable to develop relationships with basically anyone else. I find however that not only Dr Scott, but this community is really lovely for someone like me. To have people communicate with raw honesty and pain makes me feel like I’m not all alone. That we’re capable of more than the dreaded “How are you? Lovely weather we’re having “
8:30 I listen to Europop if I feel a depressive episode approaching Songs such as:
Take A Chance On Me, by ABBA
One Step Further by Bardo
I'm Never Giving Up by Sweet Dreams,
Fantasy Island by Tight Fit.
However, Europop is not for everyone. I had a friend listen to these songs and they said they made him feel worse!
Thank you so much for this It helps me alot. I battle depression so much. I have alot of health issues and it makes my depression worse. God bless you for understanding. ❤️🙏🏻✝️
OMG I have been so anaerobic for over a year and all of this applies! I hardly leave home and almost don't eat. Protien shakes are keeping me alive for now. I actually wondered if I have become anorexic 😮 Thank you so much!!
This is incredibly helpful for someone with cptsd also . Sometimes I get triggered and just want to hide from the world while I re-regulate myself, which can last for how long.
Thank you. I have been depressed for a couple months or so now and I am especially afraid and anxious about how long I will feel this bad. I appreciate your time, effort and devotion to us who are suffering as you obviously have. Much love and grace to you and your family.
These are so great. Another thing that helps if you have a smartphone is to schedule a ton of reminders that ask “Is this a satisfying thought?” It’s so easy to forget to notice your thoughts and how they shape our view of the moment, so having an external, automatic prompt to check in with whatever thoughts are arising and just see them is so helpful. Don’t try to change them if they’re negative, don’t think positively, and don’t ignore them because that will almost certainly guarantee they get worse. But if you keep noticing them without judging them, they tend to tire themselves out and not hang around. Actually, if you can suspend the habit of judging or evaluating or picking-and-choosing what you do and don’t want to experience for the duration of the episode, that might actually pull you out of it quicker. It will at least make things easier to handle…but you gotta have regular external reminders or you might not even try to do it
Wow I’ve never seen this trick before!! 🤯 What a great, simple way to short-circuit the thought patterns, thank you for sharing!
Thx for sharing this gem
I have to practice thought stopping, or I spiral into dwelling on everything negative. I find there's so much to fight lately, that I almost don't know where to start. Its' very hard to focus on positives, when there's not much hope of things changing anymore. I do a gratitude list and try and focus on that as I get up though.
dr, Scott you are bang on, as being diagnosed with cpsd,& other issues
one can firmly see that you are speaking from experience.
my advice to everyone who has depression/ anxiety attacks my heart goes out to you all! force your self. it does get better! I'm living proof. believe me you are worth every breath you take is one step closer to a beat this mental drain ❤ all you beautiful people.
When i talk about it.. all i get told is , well people have it way worse than you... and told i need to snap out of it. Life is what u make it... you'll be ok. You have no reason to be depressed... so yea staying quiet is better, so i dont get judged. I cant even get a break from my kids. I haven’t had a day to myself in about a year. Im stuck in this house 7 days a week 24 hrs a day. I have no friends , no help... just sucks ... im ready to go home home and be done with this miserable life.
I was in your situation for years, every day felt like An eternity and at the same time I was wasting my whole life away doing nothing and then before I knew it thing's got easier, and easier as my kids got older and more independent I was able to find myself enjoying a more balanced life and that alone helped but the other thing that actually makes me grateful for the depression and loneliness is that I was always there for my kids and having a close bond with them was ultimately worth all of the times I thought I was about to break down. Just remember that your life will not always be this way, you will get back to yourself at some point and you will have a lot to be proud of.
@Happiestoneever785 thank you for your kind words 🙏 ❤️ Thanks for the encouragement 😊
I’m in your shoes! Hang in there!
I’m pretty cynical. But to me you seem authentic and that you are willing to share your fallibility. Most importantly, in addition to making a lot of sense, you come across as truly caring. Thank you for reaching out.
Especially the part about social media/screentime. I am taking a break from IG now because of my depression (IG is also a huge depression trigger for me for different reasons) and it really gives me space to feel what I feel if that makes sense. Not looking for that distraction all the time gives me insights and space to really feel these emotions (they are not feeling good.. but running away from it doesn't help me at all, it just keeps me stuck in this endless loop) Cry when I need to cry and just building up from there, going for walks, to the gym but on a slower pace (I feel like the heavy gym classes are too much stress for my body) eating better and listen more to my body and what I want and need to feel better again.
I can barely tell my therapist about my depressive episodes. This is a great video, as always. I somehow always leave your videos feeling surprised by how grounded and non-judgmental the insights are. Looking forward to the day I can see a depressive episode coming and prepare in advance.
I’m currently in a psychiatric unit after being severely depressed and suicidal, I’ve had insomnia since December, waking at 2 or 3 am and being unable to sleep. 8 weeks of that plus depression and thought loops of rumination over things from the past sent me over the edge in to an incredibly scary and suicidal frame of mind, I’ve been in this unit since Tuesday, put on meds and feeling horribly low still, it’s day 4 in here. Severe depression combined with anxiety is unbelievably hard to bare. I have to believe I can see things clearly and have a clearer perspective on things. I don’t like who I am nor this life right now
Hey, just some random person who just read your comment. I hope you’re okay. I don’t have much else to say except someone somewhere (me) is wishing you well!
Been there. There now. You are not alone. Please just try one little thing everyday. . . even if it’s learning to care about brushing your teeth again while you’re there. These are successes. I care about you! I understand 1st hand. I promise.
@@l.linkhart4024 Well I was in that unit for 3 weeks on a voluntary basis. It didn’t help being in there if im honest. I thought I was improving a bit recently but I’ve had a relapse in my mood and struggling again
I don’t know you, but I know the insomnia and rumination well and hope you are feeling better. 🙏🏻
I am an INFJ (rarest personality type) and that combined with childhood trauma, assault, divorce, and beating cancer (yay!) equals the perfect storm for anxiety and depression. I keep doing the inner work through therapy and watching videos like this. Thank you, Dr. Scott. The advice that you give (i.e. paper plates!) shows that you truly get what depression feels like.
Dr. Scott, you saved me many times. One huge thing you took out of my depressive episode is guilt. Thank you.❤
on top of everything else you are supposed to somehow hold down a job
The worst part...
This is most helpful!! The best $$ I ever spent years ago was buying a small dorm fridge for my bedroom. I like cold soda/water/jello/etc. When I’m in one of my major funks and am in “hibernation mode”, having easy access to my cold beverages/snacks helps me.
Bipolar spectrum disorder depression plus chronic fatigue syndrome and a list of chronic health challenges have kept me housebound since 2009 and at one stage I was basically bed bound. I'm recovering slowly and hoping to find more hints and tips for helping myself heal and manage my symptoms. I struggle to do anything house related and am limited to what I can do with very limited money and energy.
I'm working my way thru all the videos you post, collecting information to rebuild my life from the foundations.
Thankyou for making it free and easy to understand.
Blessings from South Eastern Australia, Dot
I've had a major depression for over a year and a half. It's been well over 2 years since the break up and cheating trauma that started the hell of appetite and heavy weight loss. Been alone for over a year now and still have barely been able to cook. So it's frozen pizzas and dinner, easy, already prepared things. I a great cook and baker. Would have thought I'd have gotten that back by now. Tried to get ingredients for healthier things I wanted to make, but they'd go bad on me. So I re-heat. I big part of the problem, is even when I go shopping, when I can get myself out, I blank out on what to even buy. Occasionally I can think of a few new things, which helps my interest in food more, if I have more variety. Mostly I eat the same old things, so I dread eating all the more. Protein shakes did help me put back 5 pounds. I'd been down as low as 105, to back to 110, which felt so much better for a bit. Still too thin, but the bonyness was kind of scary for a while. Now I'm struggling to keep it on again. Back to 108. I was eating like it was my job and couldn't slow down my roaring, downward metabolism for around a year. Now I'm not as hungry constantly, but that's a problem too. Just so tired of forcing food in, when I don't really want it. So every few days, I work hard on it and in between, it's just too much effort, so barely eat. Not as diligent about the protein shakes either. Wish I didn't get tired of the same old pretty quick, but some of us are like that, esp. when not much is appealing.
Thank you so much for going into detail with compassion the reasons it's so difficult to feed myself in the middle of a depressive episode. It's validating to not just berate myself as being "lazy" or "spoiled" for not wanting to do the dishes or not wanting to cook anything.
My go-to depression meal is plain yogurt with sliced bananas. No cooking, not much chewing, full of protein and good fats, and it's almost like ice cream.
The tip I can't follow through with is telling someone I am in a depressive episode. I know I should but I just can't.
I have been watching avidly through my last episode a few months. You helped me, the anhedonia and nurture videos especially. Like you, I am not a regular "block" I don't quite fit, too many surfaces. I am getting better. I will keep you close. Thank you for all of your help and advice.
Ive had many episodes od depression due mainly to chronic insomnia. This problem began in my teens caused by bullying.
Im now 67 and just ready to retire worked as a nurse gor 47 years, i pray for inner healing and peace of mind.
There was childhood trauma which caused terrible low self worth and social anxiety.
I long now for peace of mind and a good friend ❤
Awesome suggestions! Some I was aware of, but I’d never thought of the disposable “dinnerware”, or figuring ways of removing the heavier things. I’d always thought you had to just shove through or the episode would last longer. This is fantastic news! Thank you.
I oddly don't have a big problem w/ the dishes. Have a dishwasher and can usually hand wash a pot. Usually only reheat in microwave or toaster oven on tinfoil. Using actual pots involved real cooking, which I get to maybe every few months. if I had kids or others involved, it would be different, but alone, that's all I can manage. Getting the dishwasher unloaded gives me a little sense of accomplishment, ,once a week or so. It's more the cooking.
If you are doing actual cooking, an old friend showed me a great model I've utilized every since, since I have pain/fatigue issues. She would get her kitchen ready just a bit at a time, well ahead of making dinner. She'd get some pots and utensil out. Later, she'd get ingredients out. Then she'd chop veggies a bit at a time, if it was like spagetti. I found this invaluable, as I'd only ever known to do it in one fell swoop. Which could be too painful and tiring. W/ depression, if you can muster those tiny hits of motivation for just a few tasks at a time, before you hit the couch, it's enough. I know motivation is a huge issue for us, as depression sucks it out of us like a hoover.
You are so welcome!
This is so helpful. I can see I figured some of this out retrospectively and will continue to reinforce these subtle changes. Hour by hour, one foot in front of the other, this is all excellent advice.
Been in one for 6-7 months since June…. I blame inflammation from wildfire smoke for setting it off. Don’t really have hope for getting out of it, just living for my parents sake.
i find the state of tidiness of the house is a good indicator of my state of mind. When I'm not putting clothes away I know I'm on that slippery slope
You are so right about all of this. I can feel it coming sometimes. This information is very helpful.
Thank you, Dr. Scott. This is most helpful.
You are such a gift !! Grateful I found you . Thanks for the real talk.
To anyone who's interested in nutrition: remove maltodextrin, carrageenan, methylcellulose and modified starch from your diet and see what that does to your digestion, mood and other symptoms. Nothing to lose there and a lot to win ❤
I try to mostly eat whole foods and make sure I take my vitamin naturopath and functional dr recommended Thorne brand Nutrient II and drink Matcha instead of coffee that makes me anxious and negative.
Scott, thank you for this. You express the gems of wisdom so clearly, genuinely and perfectly. Very important pointers.
Thank you, Dr. Eilers. This is so very helpful.
Thank you so much. You nailed it for sure. I wish everyone out there who struggles that they find relief and comfort soon.
Thank you so much, your channel really does help me so much. I love how you are so understanding because you've been through it first hand. That's what makes me really understand and comprehend your videos and suggestions and ideas. I appreciate you Dr. Scott
I don't just feel depressed "sometimes." I never wake up feeling happy or optimistic. Every day since being a small child, I have woken up feeling empty, sad, and unhappy. There are occasional days when I'm able to push past it & force it. But, when I am able to do that, I have 3 or 4 days of total shutdown afterwards, where I'm almost catatonic. Even on the days when I do feel strong enough, I live right on the edge of my nerves, like a coiled spring. It's absolutely exhausting! I didn't do well in school. Teachers always said the same thing about me. "Kelhi has the potential to be great in school, but she simply chooses not to focus and get on with her work." What they didn't understand is that I was fighting every day against the feeling of wanting to go everywhere all at once. I'm 41 now, and I'm still struggling with myself. All NHS doctors are prepared to do is give me antidepressants. It really feels so futile, like Im banging my head against a brick wall. I tried "betterhelp therapy". But, I was left with the feeling that "Betterhelp" does for mental health what McDonald's does for nutrition. Not to mention that it's outrageously expensive, given the fact that they don't diagnose or treat issues with medication. There's no help coming, I'm stuck in this perpetual shadowland, and it sucks!
The information as well as the presentation were extremely effective! It is obvious you know your subject & clients well. Thank you!
What an incredible video!! Thank you, over and over again!
Thank you for putting into words the feelings that I'm not able to describe sometimes. Also, these are really helpful strategies!
Thank you for being so kind and empathetic with your suggestions. Sometimes it's hard to find *realistic* helpful tips for depressive episodes.
This was really helpful. The first one really hit home as I have a sink full of dirty dishes that I have been avoiding all week. Paper plates......what a great idea! Thank you for all of your insightful recommendations. They are much appreciated and so realistic.
I just finished reading your book! It was very well written and very helpful
Meals replacements/shakes are great during depressive episodes , really appreciate your videos! These tips are extremely helpful!
Dr, Scott, you are so good at this. Your precise explanations are so remarkable.
Wow this is the best ever advice! Thank you!
This is the moast practical and pragmatic advice I've ever heard from a MH professional, thank you. I recently attended a psychoeducation course that was supposed to provide this kind of help but this 20 mins was more useful than all seven weeks.
While listening to you I honestly felt "his words precisely described MY depression, how food is of no interest, isolation"...it was as if u knew every thing I think, feel and do. Thanks for making me feel understood.
I agree! He is very empathetic. I think he understands because he has been there, and that really comes through.
Thank you so much for these videos, really. Amazing work. Thank you!!
Very good and practical advice. I was questioning whether I’m actually in an episode because, fortunately, it’s been a long time since I’ve felt this way. I’ve no doubt any more. Thank you for laying it all out for me. I can try to move forward now. ❤
So so good. Great vid Dr. S!
Excellent tips! Thank you SO much.
I love all of your videos. Thanks for the practicality
I feel so seen and validated by this video. I have gotten better at caring for myself during depressive episodes due to therapy, but man it's hard. These are awesome tips. Thank you! ❤
Omg! You are absolutely right never thought about have disposable plates and meals
Sometimes it gets out control my kitchen and make everything worse
(No help live with disabled brother) Thank you for sharing your knowledge 🙏
I can’t thank you enough for your expert advice and suggestions.
Great info! Thank you!
You understand the problematic!!! Thank you!
This is a complete life saver!
I hadn't thought of disposable plates and plastic utensils. Excellent idea! I do keep Lean Bars (protein bar, low or no sugar and fat) on hand because when I forget to eat (or don't want to) then I definitely don't have the energy to cook anything. And if anyone hates wake-up alarms as much as I do, try a 'progressive' alarm. It starts off quietly and increases in volume. Much less jarring to wake up to.
Personal hygiene is a problem when in a depressive episode. I have been thinking of buying disposble bathing towels, no shower required, to feel better about myself when I'm in that deep. I already do the paper plates & plastic forks, ready-to-serve meals, and meds easily at the ready. You are right, things have to be planned to ensure we can carry out the steps we need to take care of ourselves until the gloom lifts.
I like Trader Joe's cucumber wipes. Also use dry shampoo, sunblock, take my vitamin, and drink matcha tea. Then wait for the vitamin and tea to take effect so i can do a small chore and walk my dog. Then as long as I don't have contact with anyone I can usually get some of what I struggle with done.
I'm going back into one. Helpful info. Thanks
I really learned a lot from this session. Fortunately, I have a great therapist. If she ever retires, I hope I can find someone like you.
Love this video. ❤ I watch it during the start of every depressive episode… the strategies work! They’re so effective
Great ideas! Thank you.
I love your videos. So very helpful!
Thank you. I'm in the middle of a depressive episode. At least I hope it is the middle. It has been going on for weeks. One of the triggers is my psychiatrist is leaving. I have had her since 2017. We are very close, and share so many things together about life, not just my mental health. In addition though, she has helped me navigate through so many obstacles in my life. I feel like I am grieving the loss of a loved one. I fear I won't be able to maintain and grow without her. I also have a therapist, who is great also. But, my psychiatrist is something special that can't be replaced. I just want this sadness and depression to go away already. I want to feel confident again, and motivated to keep pressing forward in my goals.
@@Jsan2222 I'm sorry. That is so hard to deal with. Do something nice for yourself everyday that feels good inside. Or that lifts your mood a little. a brisk walk, t.v. time with the dog and a good snack, organize your favorite space inside your house. IDK, just trying to help. I know how hard it is. I hope you are taking care of yourself while this storm passes.
Such great advice.
In a dark place right now.
Your suggestions are precious❤️
You have a very good voice and speed to talk that makes ur videos very pleasant
Thanks for the videos. I loved your tips on giving up all alcohol and drugs. Its common sense obviously but the thought of giving up drink seriously made me miserable. It was the only way I could enjoy myself. I dont have fun like that anymore but I found having a clear mind and the mental strength; without fighting all the horrid side effects.of substance abuse, along with the depression , left me in a much better place to deal with life.
Excellent advice! Your videos are so helpful. You're a man who knows what it's like to be in the battlefield of depression, and who also has the professional skills to give practical, heartfelt counselling. I feel like you're speaking to me, and that is a sign of a great communicator. Thank you. And well done. 🙏🏻
My soul needs to rest, and not for a month, but forever. That is how depression feels like when it hits hard...
What would you say to me if I said those exact words to you, seriously asking, Ty?!❤
@@kimlarso this answer is from the bottom of my heart:
I am sorry you feel that way. I do not have an fair explanation of why, or why you, and realistic solutions are out of my scope. I wish I was God to solve your suffering at the drop of a hat, but I'm far from being God, and far from understanding why He allows many things in this life. I can't tell you how to live your life, neither to end it, neither to continue it. I am at a loss when I find people like you and I. Sorry I didn't say what most people would say, but I tried to keep it real.
I use a meal replacement powder blended with kefir and frozen fruit for times when I have no appetite or no energy to fix meals. Cooking can help me with anxiety though, because doing nothing can turn into a horrible downward spiral. This week I made quiches that I cut into portions and freeze - thaw a piece in the fridge overnight and reheat the next day for easy and nutritious meals. You can buy frozen pie shells to make it even easier.
Oh my, I wish I could get back to making nice healthy meals for freezing. I used to make gorgeous homemade quiches. Buy the double pie shells, and freeze one. Make a nice batch of home fries, maybe some beans on the side. Sometimes the beans would be homemade too. Used to even make my own yogurt and bread. Miss homemade food so much. I've tried watching all sorts of cooking videos to spur myself back to cooking and baking. I've tried all manner of visualizing myself doing it again. Nope. Been over a year and a half, frozen and ready made.
What I most take from this is that I deserve to be better - so much so that I deserve to better take care of myself in order to make that happen. Shocking that I needed someone to tell me but anyhow a good contrast to my internal landscape. In a way that teaches me that my internal landscape really isn’t what it should be.
Well now I wish I had directly said that 😁 thanks for improving the message!
Thanks doc! I have more tools in my arsenal for the next one.
Thank you so very much! Lifeline ..