How to Get Out of Bed When You're Depressed
If you're struggling with depression, you know how it can affect your every day life. When the black cloud of depression descends on you and becomes too much to handle, it's hard to find motivation for anything. The simplest tasks seem too overwhelming to even consider. It can feel like everything in the world is too much, and you don't know how you will ever be able to get out of bed again. We've put up a list of five strategies that I have used to overcome the fog of depression.
Start by simply wiggling your toes
I've been there. I used to be so down that I couldn't even get out of bed. I wanted to sleep the whole day away in bed. The outside world was terrifying, and I didn't know how to deal with it. The only secure place was beneath the covers.
How did you manage to get out of bed when it felt like an impossible task? I broke down each task into smaller and more manageable pieces. I couldn't get out of bed but could I wiggle my toes? Yes. What about my fingers? Yes. Could I open my eyes? Yes.
I would take a pause between each task to adjust. Could I sit in bed? Yes. Could I put on some happy music on my phone? Yes. Could I read in bed? Yes. And slowly, my will to live would come back. Could I put my feet on the floor? Yes!!
Have a pleasant morning routine that involves your senses
Once you've managed to get out of bed, depression can still linger. Your morning routine is an opportunity to give yourself a mini-boost. I would make myself a cup of my favorite tea or coffee. Then, I would pick a scent for my essential oil diffuser. Depending on what I needed - something calming, stimulating, or something that would just smell great.
It also meant turning on some music that made me feel energized. When depression feels like its sapping all your energy away, having something simple but enjoyable helps pull you back into being present again.
Bring in the big guns: cold therapy
If I was still irritated and irritable after getting out of bed, I would bring in the heavy artillery: cold therapy aka the Wim Hof Method. The Wim Hof Method is a breathing exercise that is followed by a cold bath or shower. I would start with the breathing exercise and then take a cold shower. I know the Wim Hof Method is a cold shower, but I despise the chilly. I learnt that a chilly shower was still effective for me and that it was far less unpleasant and more doable than a cold one. By then, I would usually have my mental clarity back and would feel like myself again.
Make your bed: why it's so critical
Every morning, I strongly encourage you to make your bed. It will offer you a sense of accomplishment that can help to increase good mood throughout the day. I've discovered that sadness and low energy are frequently linked. When depression paralyzes you, it's essential to have simple jobs that allow you to feel accomplished. Every morning, I loved making my bed and feeling pleased with how far I'd come in overcoming depression. If you want to learn more about the benefits of making your bed every morning, read our article: 6 Reasons To Make Your Bed Every Morning.
Take a stroll around the block.
Getting outside is so important for depression and low energy. There's nothing better than taking a walk to clear your head and help you re-focus on what matters most. The air and the sun will revive you in ways that sitting inside can't. A simple walk around your neighborhood can help get your heart rate up as well as releasing endorphins in the brain which create feelings of happiness.
Depression is not something you can just get over. It's a serious health condition that affects your entire body and brain, which means it will take time to heal. If you're currently dealing with depression, I hope these tips will help you on your journey. It is important to remember that there are many ways for you to take care of yourself and your mental health. You can start by talking with a therapist or doctor about what treatments may be best suited for your needs.
