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Original poster

What helped you most while recovering from depression?

35 replies

MarmadukeM · 17/04/2026 13:55

When recovering from depression what are some things that have really helped you?
I am thinking of trying to have a routine (until I go back to work)
was thinking of daily walk, cook something for tea, go to sauna(I have a membership) and reading/bath at night. Watching stuff on telly that’s an easy watch just to distract me really (can thought spiral quite easy 😖)
be grateful for anyone else’s tips as although I’m on some new meds they are going to take a few weeks to kick in so I’m trying to maximise recovery from other means as well.
thanks in a advance x

OP posts:
ByAvidLurker · 17/04/2026 15:29

Lists - very very small simple lists.

Get our of bed - tick
make cup of tea -tick
have shower - tick

etc etc

Aparecium · 17/04/2026 15:26

I joined a non-auditioning choir. The breathing exercises as part of the warm up, the concentration and focus (learning to tune in to other voices, learning to sing parts, learning to understand the music, breathing at the right time and in the right way, and so many other skills) took me right out of my ruminating head and gave me such a wonderful sense of well-being. It reconnected me with good function in my body and in my mind. Every week I knew that I would feel amazing at 9.30pm on Tuesday.

And let’s not forget the unquestioned acceptance of my voice. It did not matter one drop whether I could sing in tune. I could not. At least, not when I joined. But the entirely non-judgmental atmosphere enabled me to relax and learn. And my voice improved. I’m now a decent choral singer. I still make up something new when I warble unsupported, but I can sing reliably with other voices.

It makes me happy 😊

LetaLestrange · 17/04/2026 15:15

I’ve just returned to work after 5 months off with depression.

What helped me was not going more than 2-3 days without having something planned. Usually just coffee with friends. I couldn’t manage groups but had 2-3 friends whose houses I’d go to. Just a couple of hours, very low key.

It forced me to get dressed and leave the house, but with no pressure to look nice or “perform” in any way. I didn’t invite anyone to mine as I couldn’t handle the stress of it.

(Also decided to divorce!)

ShortAndIntense · 17/04/2026 15:02

I also forgot to say little projects like painting the shed a nice bright colour or doing some small jobs like weeding or baking a nice cake - small comforting tasks that you can do bit by bit. I hope you feel better soon xx

Overthebow · 17/04/2026 14:55

I’ve never taken time off work for it as going to work was the biggest thing that has helped me, a big distraction and getting out of the house.

Original poster
MarmadukeM · 17/04/2026 14:53

Nollie · 17/04/2026 14:05

Meditation. I didn't really think it was for me, but it really really helped me. I hope you're feeling a bit better soon, OP.

I’m not great at that kind of thing but could give it a go again x

OP posts:
Original poster
MarmadukeM · 17/04/2026 14:52

NotDarkGothicMama · 17/04/2026 13:58

Divorcing exH? Maybe not quite what you were looking for.

Having easy-prep meals and an early night really helped me too.

Ha funnily enough yes me and husband have decided to divorce. It’s very recent, I have been upset about it and worried about how I’ll manage but ultimately I think our marriage has been kind of depressing the last few years x

OP posts:
Nollie · 17/04/2026 14:05

Meditation. I didn't really think it was for me, but it really really helped me. I hope you're feeling a bit better soon, OP.

ShortAndIntense · 17/04/2026 14:00

Making plans to see friends/family, walking in nature, familiar music and TV shows. Avoiding triggers (mine was the news).

NotDarkGothicMama · 17/04/2026 13:58

Divorcing exH? Maybe not quite what you were looking for.

Having easy-prep meals and an early night really helped me too.