When someone with depression is in "survival mode", it's extremely common for them to let go of healthy habits. And, if you can relate, then we'd like to share with you a little short story that we recently wrote :)
A Little Story About Forgoing Healthy Habits When You're In "Depression Survival Mode"
Probably the biggest sign for me that I'm entering "depression survival mode" is when I let go of healthy habits.
Like not exercising because I feel too exhausted ...
Or eating easy-to-access junk food because I can't be bothered cooking ...
Or staying in bed all day and not even trying to be productive.
I used to always beat myself up for this, which would make me feel ashamed, guilty and even more depressed.
But these days, I'm trying to be more self-compassionate, and instead say nice things to myself like "you're doing your best" and "it's normal given how hard depression makes it to function".
Being kind to myself like this doesn't immediately make everything better again, but it definitely helps with the shame and the guilt.
And, as a result, it ultimately makes the transition from "survival mode" back to "living mode" a whole lot smoother.
Please remember: Try not to judge yourself in "survival mode" by the same standards as you would if you were in "living mood".
Instead, please be gentle with yourself.
All our love,
The Depression Project Team.
P.S. If you have a tendency to let go of healthy habits when you're in "depression survival mode", then we encourage you to check out some of our other blog posts and resources on this website - since you'll find lots of advice to help you maintain your healthy habits when you're in "depression survival mode" :)