Tips for Reviving Your Interests While Depressed
by Martin Franklin
When you are depressed, you might find that it is impossible for you to take interest in anything that you are doing or find any joy in your life. This can be frustrating because it can cause passive or active suicidal ideation, as well as make it harder to do the things that you need to do to recover from depression. One way to fight through this is to actively revive your interest in life. Here are some tips for reviving your hobbies and interests while you are depressed.
1. Actively Seek Out Groups That Are Excited About the Same Topics You Used to Love
You haven't always been depressed. In fact, you probably had some hobbies and interests that really excited you and made you want to stay up all night doing them. While you may have lost your love of those activities and topics currently, other people have not and are still interested in those same things. Actively seek those people out. By hanging out with people who have the same interests that you used to have, you increase the chances that you will be able to rekindle excitement in yourself. You will also have people counting on you to actively participate in your old hobbies holding you accountable, so you will have a harder time letting your interests fall by the wayside.
For example, if you love bird watching, join a bird-watching group and volunteer to drive a few people to a national park for an event. These people will be counting on you and will therefore ensure that you don't back out.
Eventually, your interest will return.
2. Fake It Until You Make It
Pretend that you are still interested in your old hobbies. If you used to love making jewelry, force yourself to do it for thirty minutes a day. This can help keep your hands busy and keep your mind off of any negative thoughts that you might have. Read articles about your hobby like you might have used to. Do whatever you can to mimic loving topics that you used to truly love. This will help keep you busy and active, which will help you fight off your depression. It will also keep you social, which can also help reduce your depression. Keep in mind that your interests will eventually come back in order to keep yourself motivated.
For more information, talk to a company that specializes in counseling services for those who are depressed.
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About Me
As a lifetime sufferer of depression, I have spent a great deal of time in therapy. One thing that I learned early on was the importance of having a good attitude and trying to figure out how to cope with some of the suggestions that my counselors gave me. I realized that when it came to having a good experience, the bulk of the responsibility fell in my lap. I started working hard to take their suggestions in stride and carefully analyze my life and my behavior. This blog is all about improving the counseling process by having a better attitude.