What Should I Do When A Depressive State Comes My Way?

Dear Christina,

Lately, I've been in a depressive state and am unable to feel much of anything. When these states come, how should I handle them? What should I do?

- Anthony

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Dear Anthony,

Thank you for writing in and sharing. I, too, get these depressive states from time to time and for me, they happen when I am ready to go through a growth spurt, of sorts, in my personal, mental, emotional, or spiritual growth and development. In other words, they tend to happen when I'm ready to heal more and when my life is ready to get even better than it was before. (Sometimes this means it shows up as me being ready to hurt more so that I can feel more and grow more and heal more.)

I know that sounds strange, but it's true. In the video I recorded for you (below), I explain the phenomenon more and I explain the strategic steps I take when I'm in this depressive state so that I can shift out of it quicker and not be as miserable while I'm in it.

I've learned through my life's journey that these states are transitory - meaning they come and go - and once we realize what's happening (and why!), we can surrender to the state more easily, heal what's ready to heal, take active steps to shift out of the state more quickly, and be better off for having gone through it.

I'm not saying that your experience is guaranteed to be the same as mine or that of my other clients, but give the video a little watch — see if it resonates and see if you're able to shift your perception of what may be happening and thus shift your results.

Now, it's important to note that I am not a licensed medical provider and support from a licensed mental health specialist may be warranted. I'd recommend you seek that support, in addition to exploring some of the tools and strategies I share with you. Should you be experiencing an extreme depressive state or having thoughts that may impact your safety or the safety of others, please seek immediate medical attention. It's okay to not be okay. There's no shame in surrounding yourself with the support you need.

I hope this answers your question, or at the very least, gives you a different way to ponder the experience you're having.

With love, gratitude, grit, and grace,