Real Life Advice For Those With Depression And/Or Suicidal Thoughts

Suicide is one of the most horrible thoughts that you can have. Thinking that the world or your family is "better off without you" is heartbreaking.  With some recent suicides in mind, I'm hoping a little practical advice can help.

I can't promise you that life is going to get better. You may have a very tough road that I have no idea on how I can tell you how to travel. I can tell you as a person that has suffered from deep depression and suicidal thoughts that it will get better, and one of the best ways to get there is to prove your worth to yourself.

Get yourself on some meds and get yourself busy. You have worth and value. There are pets out there that need you. You can save an animals life. You can give blood or plasma and give life to other people. You can be a blood or kidney donor. You can keep a senior company. You could be the person that helps put together food boxes for the homeless or the person that cleans up parks.

Talking to people helps, but I know that is one of the hardest things to do. If it's an option, take it. If you have a professional available, that's even better. I do know this is one of the hardest things to do, but you just might find a person that can help you through the tough times.

This all seems so simplistic, but if the meds or counseling aren't quite there, you can be proactive in your recovery. I know that feeling when depression sets in and you feel that weight on the back of your shoulders. I know that as bad as it is, it's almost comforting and you get this feeling that you're getting what you deserve. It's not true, it's a lie and you can't let it rule your life.

My life changed when I said, "at least I can be parts for other people" (being a blood donor really helped me). Before I knew it, I felt good about my place in the world.  I found living selflessly contributed greatly to conquering depression. If you can change your mind from "I'm worthless" to "I'm helping" or "I'm healing" you will make it through this.

Please also remember that both your current problems and your recovery are temporary. I spent many years on meds, but I have now been meds and almost completely depression free for many years.