THE DEPRESSION TRAP

The very nature of depressive symptoms is there to protect us. Our brain & body are saying… “I’ve had enough of this, I need to recharge, I don’t want to face things at the moment”. So, we end up listening to those INTERNAL FEELINGS of low mood, low energy, no interest, no joy, no motivation & we naturally withdraw.

We begin to AVOID people, our responsibilities & the things we used to enjoy. Doing this here & there won’t be a problem…Nobody is perfect. We get a SHORT-TERM RELIEF from avoiding these things. You had plans to do house chores then see friends later, but you feel low, so you PROCRASTINATE. You then feel a small buzz “Phew, I can rest & don’t have to deal with anything”.

However, if you continue to avoid & stay inactive your bubble gets smaller, & the depression symptoms stick around…WHY? You are no longer giving yourself those OPPORTUNITIES to experience PLEASURE, ACHIEVEMENT &/or CONNECTION. These feelings are the complete opposite to depression – they are the antidote.

Examples:
PLEASURE - You engage in your favourite sport or hobby.
ACHIEVEMENT – You complete a task at work, home, school.
CONNECTION – You have a catch up with a friend or family member.

Doing these activities DOESN’T GUARANTEE positive feelings each time BUT avoiding them will GUARANTEE a DOWNWARD SPIRAL LONG-TERM.

SIDE NOTE: The avoidance & inactivity might not just be solely down to depression symptoms. Other common reasons could be because of long term health conditions, current life circumstance, anxiety, doing too much or you’re not living within what you value. I will be touching on these subjects in the future.

This cycle only explains how our behaviours can keep us depressed. CBT also looks at OTHER MAINTAINING FACTORS like our thoughts, emotions & our past. Stay tuned & I’ll be sure to teach you all about it.