Emotional health is definitely taking a massive beating during this global pandemic. If we were to think of our emotional health as a bank account and our emotions as the currency, there are deposits and there are withdrawals. The global pandemic, the lockdown, the economic devastation, the uncertain future and many other issues surrounding the pandemic are making big-time withdrawals from our emotional banks. And some of us are running dry because we are unable to make the usual deposits into the bank.
Elijah faced a similar situation and his emotional and spiritual bank seems to have been emptied after his confrontation with the prophets of Baal. So, when Jezebel threatened to kill him, he had nothing left and he panicked and ran. Fortunately, he discovered help in a widow in a foreign land and there he found shelter, safety and space to rebuild his battered emotions.
Going beyond the strict interpretation to draw an analogy that we can use for dealing with depression, here are some truths we can use. Obviously, they are not exhaustive and some more suggestions are provided below, but this is what we can infer from Elijah’s experience. He went to a different country – now I know we can’t travel but if possible, a different environment is a tonic for the soul. A place where we can find some space for ourselves.
He found someone who was able to feed him and though there was a famine, the food did not run out. Food is in itself a medical treatment and helps our minds and bodies repair itself and even build immunity. He had a place to rest, good sleep is essential in our recovery.
So, when our emotional banks have too many withdrawals and little deposits we are in danger of running dry and depression is a very real condition we may experience, it may be a time to “escape to a safe place”. And for those of you whose emotional bank is full, and your world is not crashing around you, do reach out to someone who needs help and be a source of shelter, of companionship and provision of a person’s physical and emotional needs.
Here are a few more suggestions of how we can get over depression:
Stay in touch
Trying to deal with everything on your own can be overwhelming. It is always better to reach out for help whenever you are feeling low. It’s OK to ask for help and let people know that you are vulnerable. What you cannot do alone can be achieved if you are open to seeking help. Try to socialise and not keep yourself isolated.
Do one thing today that you enjoy
Engage yourself in doing the things you like or once loved. It can be going out for a morning walk, playing with a pet, gardening, blogging, reading a book, making music or dabbling with art. Keeping yourself occupied will help you overcome most negative thoughts. It might seem challenging when you begin, but the end result is always sweet.
Work on a routine
Come up with a daily routine. You can start with something small and achievable. It can be making your bed as soon as you wake up, eating your meals in a timely manner, going to bed before midnight, setting aside time to spend with loved ones and so on. Making a checklist and checking off items from it can also be deeply gratifying. It is OK if you are not able to give your 100% every day, but taking the effort to achieve them will give you a sense of accomplishment.
Involve in a physical activity
Research shows that even 10 minutes of physical activity can boost your mood, almost instantly! Exercising regularly is, therefore, a powerful way to keep yourself energised and motivated. We recommend that you spend at least 30 minutes on 3-5 days a week engaging in physical activity of your choice, be it jogging, swimming, spending time in the gym or playing a sport that you love. Even dancing to a happy or upbeat tune in your room can make a world of a difference!
Avoid habits that are harmful
Many consider going out for a smoke as a stress buster but, the truth is, it can do you more harm than good. Similarly, drinking alcohol will only change your mood and help you forget your present temporarily. In fact, alcoholism worsens depression and depression worsens alcohol abuse. If you are already in the habit of indulging in either of these, then you need to withdraw in stages to ensure that it doesn’t worsen your depression or anxiety.
Seek professional help
Depression can be treated and it is always good to seek professional help. Though self-help does show positive results, seeking professional help from a counsellor, psychologist or therapist will help you cope better and empower you in the fight against depression.
Every day is a new day
Life isn’t over if you have failed to achieve a goal or complete a task today. Believe that tomorrow will be a better day and, most importantly, be kind to yourself. Look for a fresh start each day and don’t let one failure decide your destiny!
