Stay productive even during a bout of depression
Kevin Shirley, Associate Broker (DC), e-PRO, GRI, ASP
If you are suffering from depression, you may find it challenging to remain productive. It is also known as major depressive disorder; it is one of the most common psychological disorders.
Depression affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. It causes you to feel sadness and loss of interest in daily activities. As a result, it affects the productivity of your mental and physical health. All of its symptoms may prevent you from carrying on with your life.
But there are a few strategies you can deploy to keep productive despite experiencing depression. Here are six ways to enhance your productivity even in a depression.
Make a timetable
Make a schedule of your daily routine that will help you to be in a proper channel. Once you set your schedule, then stick to it. Following a plan will make your daily routine a habit. And once you develop a habit, it takes less time and effort to do a specific chore. Staying busy will also keep your mind active, leaving less time to ruminate.
Concentrate on the present moment
Thinking and regretting the past doesn’t benefit you. Of course, it’s necessary to keep those moments in mind and learn from them, but overthinking can overwhelm you. Similarly, thinking about unknown future challenges can leave you worried, sad, and hopeless. Therefore, focus on your present moment, the moment you are living right now. For instance, pay attention to the leaves moving in the air. Feel those movements for a while. Practicing mindfulness will help you cherish the present moment.
Get your body moving
Sitting and cogitating for hours not only slows down your metabolism but also can endanger your mental and physical health. Conversely, exercise and physical activity release hormones that improve your mood. So what are you waiting for! Get your body moving. Start small and keep yourself motivated by trying different workout techniques or new gym equipment.
Improve your diet
You may have heard, “you are what you eat.” Therefore, choose what you eat wisely. Avoid junk food, processed food, and sodas. Instead, favor homemade cooked food, whole foods, and fruits and vegetables. Include juices with your breakfast, and make sure to get all the essential nutrients in your diet. Remember, healthy food keeps your mind and body healthy.
Spend time on your hobbies
Books can be your best friends. Focus on this friendship. Set aside time every day to reading. If you can’t read much, simply build a habit of reading even one page daily. If this seems too daunting, try downloading an audiobook and listen for a few minutes at a time. Or do whatever makes you feel accomplished and happy, such as writing in a journal, listening to your favorite music, going for a relaxing massage.
Maintain your social support system
Connecting with people is a human need. Nurture the relationships with those in your social circle and spend time with them. Hangouts with friends or family can lift your mood and help you share what you are going through.
Although depression can make you feel sad, ineffectual and reduces your interest in daily activities, among other symptoms, there are ways to enhance your productivity and live a better life. Throw out all the self-defeating thoughts away and follow the strategies listed above to bring productivity back in your life, even if you are suffering from depression.
