Functioning while experiencing depression can be tough.  My life isn’t perfect – although Facebook posts may make it look as though things are pretty good but doesn’t show what was really going on.  I was motivated by the video posted below to write this post.

2016 was rough for many of us. During 2016 I struggled with depression. There are different types of depression and I would say that I was in a state of functional depression.   For those that are struggling with depression with suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.  For me this time, I wasn’t struggling with any thoughts of hurting myself, but rather a general hard time of getting stuff done.  I wanted to get stuff done, but had a hard time even taking the first step to get things done.  I went to my job and for the most part, was able to do what was needed, but not much more.  Can you relate?  Here are some steps that I took that I found helpful and maybe you will too.

1. Say something

There were several things that just made me feel blah.  I didn’t lack motivation in the sense of wanting to accomplish things, but lacked movement towards action.  2 weeks ago I came to the realization that I needed to get help.  It started with me talking to my wife.  She has been very patient with me, knowing I have not been myself.  She gave me the extra nudge to get some professional help, making an appointment with a doctor.   If you are in a similar situation -tell someone.  If they don’t listen or take you seriously, tell someone else.

2. Do Something

I was hesitant at first.  I didn’t want to be on medication, I tried that before – I didn’t like the way it made me feel.  I shared my concerns with my doctor and he told me that the medication he was prescribing was different than what I had tried previously. I had to try something to get better- for my family and for myself.  These types of medications take some time to have an effect.  After taking the medication for two weeks I have started to see an improvement. I know results don’t always happen this quickly- it can take a month or two for medications to have a noticeable effect.

3. Make a plan

I am a big proponent of setting goals and taking steps to achieve those goals.  This video had a huge impact on me last week.  It is worth watching all the way through.

While I am not a Millennial, I realized my addiction to social media  was not a good thing.  For the past week I have made an agreement with my wife not to look at my phone in bed.  Not only that, I have been more intentional about not looking at my phone so much – not checking Facebook all the time.  Guess what?  It hasn’t killed me. I am more present with my kids, more connected to my wife.  Want to see what happens for you?  Sign up for the Intentional Living Challenge BELOW.