For most people with depression, even minor tasks seem overwhelming. If you’re depressed and have lost motivation to start or complete projects, you’re not alone. But effective treatments are available, and many individuals battling depression regain their motivation to lead well-balanced, productive lives.
Finding the best strategy for alleviating your depression symptoms can make all the difference in regaining motivation. Consider talking to a mental health professional for treatment advice. Depending on the disorder’s severity, the doctor might recommend medication, therapy, self-care, or a combination.
Meanwhile, here are a few things you can use to get motivated when depressed:
1. Set small, manageable goals
Completing larger projects require more cognitive or mental engagement, which makes them seem overwhelming if you’re battling depression. Instead of considering the large projects as a whole, break them down into smaller tasks with clear end goals. Then start with one and move on to the next until the set target is attained. With consistency, you’ll discover the tasks which seemed impossible are done. Consider starting with things you usually enjoy, even if you aren’t in the mood.
2. Reward yourself
Lacking motivation? For every goal you set, decide an appropriate reward for attaining it. The rewards are essential in helping you finish the task despite the potential obstacles. Whether it is a glass of your favorite juice flavor or buying new clothes, the gift should be something you look forward to. Noteworthy, the reward does not need to be big or expensive.
3. Exercise
Physical activity stimulates the release of the feel-good hormones known as endorphins. Going even for a 10-minute walk around the block can help you manage depression symptoms and bring back motivation.
4. Develop a realistic schedule
Besides reducing motivation, depression affects your cognitive control leading to difficulty concentrating. Thus, it is easy to forget some tasks, especially if you have overscheduled yourself. To keep up with the work or school demands, creating a realistic schedule of tasks and a timeline for their accomplishment is necessary. You might need to revise your schedule a few times until you determine what you can comfortably handle.
5. Cultivate positive thoughts
With depression, it might be difficult to meet deadlines or maintain relationships. This might lead to a vicious cycle of negative thoughts about self, anxiety, and even more severe depression. Instead of thinking ill about yourself, be kind and compassionate to yourself.
Consult MEDvidi doctors to know helpful techniques for managing depression symptoms.