I definitely struggle this time of year with my mental health. November can be a tough month.
An episodic depressive episode (as opposed to chronic depression) has many symptoms. It feels like there is a heavy weight on your chest. Time stands still, you may have a hard time reading or consuming TV (much less have the cognitive ability to work).
Sadness is a blue feeling. An undertone of being uncomfortable with who you currently are. But I find sadness is easier to get out of. I can still work, be engaged with friends, and work out. I just need to push myself to do things. To be out of bed and working, thinking and listening to the world around me.
Unlike physical health the path to strong mental health is not as clear.
It becomes easy to fall into the habit of sleeping too much, eating too much (or too little depending on you) and watching the same tv shows over and over.
There is such a fine line between being kind to yourself and pushing to be better. I struggle to find that balance.
Regardless of where you are in your mental health journey remember to try do the activities that help you to grow, be challenged in the world and feel connected.
