One of the trickiest parts of treating depression is avoiding the traps that are inevitable to the illness. There are certain parts of depression that create negative cycles that then perpetuate depression. We call this a depression trap.
An example of this is losing the joy you once found in an activity, like writing. The writing was once a source of joy, yet it no longer provides the same happiness. This realization can then perpetuate another cycle of low mood and sadness.
Another depression trap is isolation and detachment. Social withdrawal is a telltale sign of depression. So much so that therapists and general practitioners train themselves to spot this symptom as early as possible.
How Does Isolation Fuel Depression?
Clinical depression gives us the powerful urge to pull away from others. This might be because we’re trying to protect others from our sadness or irritability. It could also be because we feel unworthy of the company. Regardless, this is one of the key symptoms of depression. It’s also a way depression becomes cyclical.
As an example, if a friend asks someone with depression to go out, that person will probably say something like, “I have things to do,” or, “I don’t feel like going out tonight.” While under normal circumstances, these answers are extremely reasonable, someone who has depression is likely using these as a cloak.
Their friends might then feel that the depressed person does not want to hang out with them and they stop inviting. This leads to the depressed person feeling they aren’t cared for, are unworthy of friendship, and the cycle begins anew.
How to Stop the Cycle
The good news in all of this is you have some control over your depression. There are steps you can take to stop the cycle and prevent loneliness and isolation.
Self-Awareness
Part of tackling depression recognizes it. If you notice yourself showing any of the symptoms above, consider that you might be experiencing the beginnings of a depressive episode. The sooner you can identify the emotions surrounding depression, the sooner you can disrupt the cycle.
Mindfulness practices like meditation and journaling are valuable tools for assessing your mood. They help you track how you’ve been feeling over an extended period of time. This can make all the difference in finding a pattern to your depressive episodes or simply spotting when they’re coming.
Reach Out
Reaching out to friends or family members is difficult for someone with depression. Because they feel they are unworthy of love or will be a burden to others, isolation seems like a reasonable solution. This is an ideal that must be dismantled in order to get onto the road to recovery.
If you’re feeling lonely, text someone. Plan an intimate gathering with just one or two other people. While going to a well-attended party during a depressive episode is immensely intimidating, coffee with a friend might feel more manageable.
If going out into the world still feels insurmountable, invite one person over or ask if you can go to someone’s house. Give yourself the space you need while allowing yourself companionship.
Talk with a Therapist
Depression is an unfortunately common diagnosis. However, this means therapists are well-versed in how to treat depression. Speak with your general care provider if you need help finding a therapist who will work for you.
The help of a certified therapist can be pivotal in the recovery from depression. They can help you find coping strategies and mental exercises that can help manage your system and fit into your lifestyle effectively. There’s no reason to handle your depression alone. Reach out to Professional Therapy Atlanta and find out how depression therapy can help you take control of your joy.