Coping with Depression
Keeping a diary of your moods might help to track them as it provides a visual reminder, and may also help you find out if there are any triggers for a depressive episode. Try using a scale of -5 to +5, with the low end being severely depressed, and the top end being highly manic. Under each numerical score, write a few bullet points as to what happened that day, how you were feeling, and anything that might have stressed you out. If you wanted, you could also keep a more detailed journal to give yourself a creative outlet to relieve the how you are feeling.
Creative outlets can be a valuable resource in helping to lessen feelings of depression and sadness, and it is worth a try in seeing how these could work out for you. If you play an instrument this could be one way of accessing creativity, alternatively you could try writing poetry, or drawing.
While it is vital to maintain a good sleep regime if you have bipolar disorder, try not to give in to the sleep urges that come with depression too much, as this could result in you feeling worse. Try and stick to a routine, and always have some structure to your day.
If you get urges to hurt yourself, try distracting methods such as running ice cubes along your arms, scribbling on paper, or going for a run.
Quiet time spent with yourself is valuable in helping you to recoup your thoughts and strengthening your mind. Even five minutes spent going through your thoughts can help, and will allow you to notice ways in which to think about your feelings differently. If you are religious then this can be a valuable asset in strengthening your feelings, and if you are not spiritual then you could try something like yoga or tai chi.
Conclusion
Depression can feel like there is no end in sight, or that there is no way out of the way you are feeling, but try and remember that with the right amount of help and by reaching out to your family and friends, you can overcome the way you are feeling.
Remember that if feelings become too overwhelming, or you begin to feel as though you cannot cope, that contacting medical professionals is the best route to go down as they can guide you in how best to look after yourself.
