So you're fed up?. You might have had depression for years. Sometimes you want to give up right?. We all know the feeling.
But other times we are functioning OK, good even and we don't know why. That means it has an underlying lack of predictability to it. The mental health professionals know a lot but there are huge gaps in overall knowledge about depression. There is lack of commonality or we'd all read the same book to read up about ourselves.
So, that moment you are fed up...you decide to "fight it". Whatever it takes. You push yourself really hard. But I suggest, based on what I've read and subsequently my own practicing of such readings, it isn't the way to go. Ever shadow boxed? You'll never win against an invisable opponent!
But you might be able to corral it, corner it so you can live life better, not ideal perhaps but limiting the effects on depression should be your aim.
The moment I read an article about 3 years ago that said " one should allow depressive cycles to run their course not try to hurry up the process" I knew I'd been on the wrong track. Over many years I'd had many mental challenges, family, workplace discrimination etc and I fought the maximum within my power so I thought "I can lick this"... No I couldn't and such daily determination might be commendable but that doesn't mean its effective.
It takes more wisdom. Unfortunately some mental illnesses have symptoms that result in fast thoughts and actions that hide our wisdom. With effective medication and the right dosage our thought processes often slow down and that, in my case resulted in making wiser decisions. The intelligence was always there albeit with a manic blanket covering.
Be real. If you are bed ridden then unless you wet the bed you must attend the toilet right? Logical. So you can also rise from bed to greet your carer after a hard days work. At times prepare a brew. Never extend your symptoms. It won't help you and your carer doesn't deserve it.
Spiritual peace. For me it was a crutial element in my recovery. I found Maharaji- and his videos " sunset" and "the perfect instrument" google them. It isn't religion, its a place you can go that provides peace. In time you'll listen daily because of his logic.
Measured determination works. But nothing works better in my opinion as does
Proper diagnosis
Appropriate medication
Best dosage
Letting cycles run their course
Being realistic
Relaxation
And not wasting effort striking the shadow boxer.
Tony WK
