Dealing With Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidal Thoughts

As anyone that knows me, knows that I research everything. However, no matter how depressed I go I never researched how to deal with it until my suicide attempt. I am not 100% sure why this was. There are many resources available out there for dealing with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.

When I got home from the hospital. I went into research mode. I searched Google and Bing. Then, I looked for some books. I wanted to know everything. I read everything I could get my hands on concerning dealing with these issues. I am sharing some insights that I have found.

Get A New Hobby

If you find that you seem to be stuck in a rut, doing the same thing over and over again. This could in fact, lead to some depression. Over time, you tend to start feeling like there is nothing else for you out there. This is the time for you to actively search for a new hobby. It would be great to find one that you enjoy and can share with others.

For me, I started slow. I took up cross-stitching. Not only does it give me something else to focus on when my mind refuses to shut up but it also, has become a great conversation starter when I am out and about. Also, I can take pride in seeing a project finished. Even if it isn't perfect, it still looks pretty good. In addition, I have been able to make some gifts(Anna for Valentines Day and Mama for Mother's Day) at low cost but filled with love. To me, those are the best gifts to give.

Talk To People

It seems to be so simple but it is one of the hardest steps. Most of us have been raised to keep those thoughts and feeling to ourselves. It is not "cool" or "normal" to talk about feelings. However, I can attest that it works wonderfully. Once I started talking, I started feeling better about myself and the world around me.

I have found many resources that allows me to talk it out. I have joined a therapy group at my local mental health clinic and am thinking of joining another. I find that after group I feel so much better than I did before. It is nice to be able to talk to people and know that they are not judging you.

Another resource that I have found is The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. They have a number that you can call 24/7 (1-800-273-TALK). I have not called it but I have the number in my phone just in case.

Medication

Anyone that knows me, knows that I have a problem with taking meds. I can't stand the thought of being on medicines for the rest of my life. However, I have found when I forget to take my Zoloft that I can feel the difference. I am a bit more stressed and start acting like I did before. This has made me realize that I do need to take some medication at this time. I just have to get over the stigma that is associated with taking them.

In Conclusion

I have found that my mental health problems are in fact, a health problem. However, there are ways to deal with these issues. In addition to taking daily medications, I can work on my own self to better deal with the world around me. Communication and staying active is the key in staying at my best both mentally and physically. 

Related Links
http://quirkygrandmother.blogspot.com/2015/02/i-just-wanted-to-die.html