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Break the Negative Cycle

Part of why depression is so debilitating is the vicious circle of negative thinking.  It goes something like this:
I feel down > I'm lazy > I don't deserve ______ > I feel guilty/anxious/stressed/pain/paranoid/whatever > I should _____ > I'm tired > I don't care > leave me alone > REPEAT

Here are some techniques I used to break this cycle:

Listen to comedy - not the sarcastic type but pure funny stuff

Search for quotes on life wisdom - ponder its truth and how (if at all) you can apply it

Clean something - it is amazing how focusing on a simple task can give your mind a break

Write a note of appreciation - like smiling, using positive language raises your spirit/mood

Breath - if you don't know how, look up yoga/meditation/mindfulness

The possibilities are endless.  The main idea I am highlighting is to FOCUS on something for a little while (15 minutes) to give your mind a break from negative thinking.  This will allow you to stop the downward cycle and at least not get worse.  Best case scenario, you start on a positive journey!


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