coping with depression

January 11, 2006 by randomguru

Here’s a nice little article on Coping with Depression. As much as I meditate and do yoga to make myself calm and serene, I’ll be the first to admit I am not “immune” to it.

I think we all, at one time or another, become depressed and down-in-the-dumps. We try to rationalize that it’s a natural part of being human, of wanting things in life to go your way, and when it doesn’t, and when negative things in your life take a toll on you, then that’s when the depression starts in.

Of course, I’m not talking about the clinical depression that might warrant psychiatric/psychologial care and medication. I’m just talking about being depressed about life when life throws you curve balls… when you’re in a valley instead of a peak.

For me, meditation and yoga definitely helps… but I feel that in my life I am still trying to deal with negative karma that’s happened to me in the past, and some things more recently. At least, in my own mind, I know I am constantly trying my best to maintain a positive attitude.

I believe most people go through a “mid-life crisis”, and I think I’ve being going through this in the past few years.

So, I’m coping the best I can, I think. And I try to channel my depressed feelings through my music and playing the piano and drums. Trying to use that negative energy and turning it into positive energy.

2005 was both a tough year and a good year for me and my family. Life is a constant struggle, but I know there is some wisdom that would simply give me the most complete answer to this struggle. And it lies within this inner journey, I’m sure.

Filed under: Musings
Tagged: Musings

Comments

2 Responses to “coping with depression”

Zaya on January 13th, 2006 10:03 pm

Hello Carlos,

I want to apologies for not having come by to say hello in a while. Obviously, I do not want to say that I understand what you’re undergoing in your personal journey. And I do not want to say any positive clichés that may do nothing more than temporarily give you surface comfort. I guess there’s nothing I really can say. But I want to share with you that I have lived with depression throughout my life as well. And I will admit that I have in the past had to take anti-depression pills when things became very bad. Occasionally I am fine and then one day, out of nowhere it will just it me very hard. Actually, truth be told. All of last December of 2005 I was on medication. I’m not proud to say that, but I will say that it helped me a great deal, and of course with the love and support of my husband as well. So, I guess I thought maybe if you didn’t feel alone in feeling depression maybe that may give you some comfort. Not much help, but I do hope with all of your meditations and piano playing brings you that much needed happiness and peace you seek.

Sincerely,
Zaya

(Hugs)
randomguru on January 13th, 2006 11:14 pm

zaya,

thanks so much for your thoughts and sharing your own experiences with depression.

it definitely helps to know that others out there experience depression.

i’m trying to sort out my thoughts right now, and i think i’m on the verge of a transition stage with all the study i’ve been doing regarding buddhist philosophy and zen.

buddhism teaches love and compassion for all, and it’s just hard trying to apply that to one’s life directly. mistakes happen and one must forgive oneself and continue learning and growing in wisdom.

hopefully, i’ll rise above it and view life from a wider, more understanding perspective…

thanks again! *hugs*

~c