Recovery from depression

The journey through the darkness of despair into the light of hope.

We all hit that place in life where we are faced with the dread of something that hurts so deep it perforates our soul. 

Pain can derive from any given circumstance. Loss of a job, a loved one, and sometimes our own sanity. From out of the blue we are faced with the reality of anguish. It cuts deep.

Now, from a place of being in the flow of life, like a ton of bricks, a wave of darkness enters our whole being. It’s a rough road ahead.

Thoughts are swirling around the mind. Feelings are moving like waves in the sea. Our outlook is blemished with solemness. So what now? This is so dramatic. Is this really happening?

It sinks in and without a time limit, we begin the hardest part of the journey. The journey within. The new default is not to talk. To withdraw and isolate. To put life on hold and just hurt.

The darkness is now full-blown. In maximum effect. Unstableness is common. Mood changes interchangeably like the weather. There’s no glossing of this process it’s just plain old holding on.

Sometimes people either turn to people or they turn to something else. Alcohol is very common as it’s easily obtained. In some cases, medical services are required. It’s easy to look for a quick solution. It’s time that ultimately decides. 

Towards recovery

Movement can happen in a sudden way. Light can shine in an extraordinary event. Something within begins to shift. A word, a song, a hug, a film, whatever breaks through lights the soul to a new purpose. A purpose is key to re-establishing the self.

Reaching out is a strength. 

With a steady rhythm, it can be uphill to start and the endurance of pain has built resilience to climb. The body physically changes, especially the facial expression. The frown seems lighter. The spine straighter.

As more development is made, it’s getting brighter. Exercise and talking help. Social activities increase. Family or friend-time is more frequent. Work can be helpful. Spontaneity is more common. 

Being back in the light after the darkness subsides, brings about some gratitude for the journey made. It reinforces the inner world belief, that whatever life can bring there is a way through it. Strength is greater in degree the deeper the pain felt. That’s a fact. 

So if you are experiencing hardship in any form, know that hope is the way to move through it. However dark it feels, the light beyond the situation you may be in, will drive you to that point where you can appreciate the work you did. Reembarking with more peace. Freedom awaits. 

Talking to a therapist or a trusted friend can help. The benefits of sharing any given circumstance have some relief. Having someone to walk through the space you are in could make it less daunting. Reaching out is a strength. It’s the first step to recovery. It’s possible if you try.