I do find that this helps and the best example I have is participating in my singing group. When I'm singing, nothing else matters and it certainly does get my mind moving in another direction. Some days I feel like I have to force myself to go to practice but once I'm there, I feel better.
Watching a good movie or reading an interesting book also help in a similar way, but I guess you might have to be careful that you're not picking things that will feed your depression!
Brilliant example, Judy.
Immersing yourself in a project or some hobby is just the thing to focus attention on something different. It's good that you have a group to look forward to.
Anyone reading this who has ever thought of following an interest should give it a try. I think everyone knows how awkward a new person can feel and most groups go out of the way to welcome new members.
Jerry
Yes, awareness of things "outside" of us does help navigate us away from the kinds of thoughts that often accompany depression. Sometimes just going through the motions can get the bills paid, and that's certainly necessary, but if we can put a little more of ourselves into whatever we are doing there are rewards beyond what is merely expedient. I do silly things like put little smiley face and heart stickers on the envelopes of snail mail I send out, whether it is to the electric company or a friend. It makes me happier.
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Great advice. I try to use the "get up, get dresses and get moving" approach but, sometimes that does not even work. I wil try the more mindful approach instead of just going thru the motions. Now if I could find that darn self-critical switch and turn it off!
Thanks so much for posting. We are out here and we are listening. :)
P.S. - What happened to Merely Me and her posts?
Thanks, Rena.
It's always worth trying something new. Hopefully it will help a little.
Merely Me posted a while back that she wasn't feeling so well. I guess that's why she stopped, or paused, her posts.
Jerry
Thanks Jerry.