Dealing with Long-Term Depressive Episodes

I want to start going to the gym so bad cuz it's hard for me to work out at home cuz I have an almost 3 year old. And thank you for all the tips! I try my best but sometimes it's just so hard.

It depends on what my responsibilities are. I had a horrible rut during college that made it hard to attend class and get assignments done. Thankfully, my campus had an organization designed to help students dealing with a full range of health problems including depression. So first thing I'd recommend is reaching out for help from your support system, NAMI, a therapist, doctor, anybody you have on your side. Break complex tasks down into simple steps. Sometimes that complex thing is getting out of bed in the morning. Tell yourself to just wiggle your toes for awhile, then bend your ankles, and your knees, and eventually you can make it up. Do simple things to take care of yourself like taking a shower or brushing your teeth, and celebrate every small victory. Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Do things that bring you a little joy. Sometimes medications can help escape the rut, so if you're able talk to your doctor/psychiatrist about adjusting or getting on something new. Take great care of yourself, eat well, exercise... I was always feeling a little better after intense barre workouts even when I had to drag myself out of bed to go.