How I Cope with My Depression

Many people believe that those who suffer from depression are weak-willed and lazy; that they just aren't trying hard enough. Nothing, however, could be further from the truth. When someone is suffering from depression and is still managing to get up and go to work, do chores, run a household, etc, that is the epitome of strength and willpower. Believe me, most of the time that person would rather just be curled up in bed in the dark all day.

I cope with my depression by getting out of bed each morning and putting one foot in front of the other. This is a necessary first step when you are depressed because it sets the tone for all of the other things you have to do all day. Then, as much as I don't want to, I go for a long brisk walk. I imagine sometimes that I am walking away from my depression – that it is slower than I am and can't catch up. When you suffer from depression, fantasies that have you coming out as the winner can get you through the day. I don't worry about living in too much of a fantasy world – it doesn't make me crazy, it makes me a survivor.

I couldn't cope without my sense of humor. Silly humor, dark humor, sarcastic humor - I use all kinds during my day. Each time I make someone laugh or can laugh at something funny in my own life, I know that I am also laughing in the face of my depression. When I am feeling particularly depressed, I remind myself over and over again that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I have two choices – and one of them is to live. I choose that one.