Three days of rain in a row. If the Black Dog hadn’t already been nipping at my heels, it came running now, teeth gnashing. It sunk its teeth into me, and it won’t let go.
Do you know what the “Black Dog” is? It has symbolized depression as far back as Victorian times, referring to depression, melancholy, or, especially in children, moodiness. Winston Churchill is believed to have suffered from major depression or bipolar disorder. He called his episodes the “Black Dog.”
I suppose we can call these episodes, and the disorder, anything we want. However, it’s essential to have an accurate diagnosis and specific treatment for the condition. Typically, this involves being assessed by a qualified clinician and having the right medications. Often, medications are tried to determine the right combination for the individual. Therapy is also a crucial part of treatment for me.
Success is often maximized when the individual takes daily steps and uses certain tools to attain and maintain significant wellness. Tools that usually work for me. While these are individual, many are commonly recommended. Such a list could be endless. I’ve recently been reminded that even if I do everything right, I’m still going to have times when I experience the mood shifts of bipolar disorder. For me, that usually happens gradually, but it can also be sudden. It’s important to remember this and not let it surprise you.
Tools to Comfort Bipolar Depression
- Have a routine that works for you.
- Exercise regularly.
- Listen to music that soothes or uplifts you.
- Meditate to calm your mind.
- Spend time outdoors and enjoy nature.
- Take walks to clear your head.
- Eat healthy food to fuel your body and mind.
- Get good sleep to recharge.
- Set goals you can work on incrementally.
- Write in a journal to process your thoughts and feelings.
- Engage in creative activities that bring you joy.
- Find a support group, even if it’s online.
These are just a few tools to help you achieve and maintain a sense of well-being. Also, keep your healthcare practitioners informed about what’s going on with you. This might mean that medication changes are needed from time to time.
Important Reminders:
- Stay informed. Educate yourself about your condition.
- Communicate. Keep your practitioners and loved ones in the loop.
- Persevere. Keep on keeping on. Don’t give up.
Let that Black Dog know you aren’t playing! You’ve got the tools and the strength to manage your mental health.
