Looking at life through a straw - depression
Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can make you feel like you're looking at life through a narrow straw, only able to see a small portion of the world around you. This feeling of helplessness can be overwhelming and make it difficult to find joy in even the simplest of things.
Different Framing
If you're struggling with depression, it's important to know that you're not alone. Many people have been in your shoes. Personally, I love this interview with Jim Carry where he speaks about depression. He talks about depression and what it is doing for us. I mean how often do you experience depression and say “oh good! Depression is here to help me!” Yeah, me either, but in thinking about depression and all emotions as information can be really helpful. Depression is trying to remove you from uncomfortable experiences (which is really what many of our behaviors or feelings are there for).
So if we frame depression in this way, we can be more comfortable and empathetic with our emotions. Depression can also be said deep rest, it’s telling you that you need deep rest. It’s asking you to set down the mask you’ve created to get you through the world and to withdraw for a time. I always imagine it like a bear going into hibernation. More sleep, less social, change in appetite, change in daily living skills, more focus on rest and solitude.
Meditation as Depression Support
One powerful tool that can help us when we’re feeling depressed is meditation. Meditation is a practice that involves quieting the mind and focusing on the present moment. It can help you to become more aware of your thoughts and emotions and to develop a sense of inner calm and peace. By putting energy into broadening our field of view through meditation, we can begin to loosen the grip that depression has on us.
When we're in the midst of a depressive episode, it can be challenging to even get started with meditation. Our minds are often filled with negative thoughts and self-doubt, making it difficult to find the motivation to sit still and quiet our minds. However, with practice, meditation can become a valuable tool for managing depression.
Keep Widening That View
In addition to meditation, it's also important to take steps to broaden your field of view in other areas of your life. This might mean trying new activities or hobbies, spending time with friends and loved ones, coaching is a great way to begin to connect with the bigger world around you. By taking steps to expand your perspective and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, you can begin to loosen the grip of depression and find a sense of hope and optimism for the future. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and support along the way. Working with a therapist, coach, acupuncturist, naturopath or your doctor can provide important support.
If you're struggling with depression, know that you're not alone. With the right tools and support, you can learn to manage your symptoms and find a sense of peace and fulfillment in your life. Take the first step today and explore how meditation and other techniques can help you to broaden your field of view and overcome the challenges of depression.
You can listen to my guided meditation designed to help broaden your field of view here
