It is, unfortunately, inevitable. You will find yourself alone at some point while you suffer from depression. It is unfortunate, but it is a statement of fact. How do you handle this? The first thing to do while alone is to not to let yourself become too inactive or sedentary. The easiest thing to do is to turn on the TV and just become a couch potato. That is highly counter-productive. What is better is to find something to do. If you have access to a computer, the multi-player games on Yahoo.com may prove to be helpful. It lets you interact with people, even if they are only on the computer. This interaction is important as you can find people to chat with. Another option is to grab a book and read, or do the crossword. The important thing is to keep busy, and find things that will keep you engaged. If you want to listen to music or have the TV on in the background, that's fine. But making it the focus of your entertainment will lead to problems. If it's a nice day out, being by yourself can lead you to go outside. Take a walk or go for a bike ride. Since exercise raises endorphin levels, it will actually counteract depression, and cheer you up. That's why going to the gym or other such activities are so good for you in this stage. If all else fails, go somewhere where there are people with whom you can start a random conversation. The bookstore or a coffeehouse might be good locations. If you find that you are having problems being alone, then the best thing to do is be alone with other people. You never know who might invite you to join in a game of chess. |
