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People Are Sharing Their Best Depression-Fighting Advice on Twitter

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On Thursday, thousands of Twitter users flocked to the hashtag #HowIFightDepression to share their best tips for dealing with depression. The resulting conversation highlighted the importance of self-care and connection with others while providing new ideas for how to manage your mental health.

One of the core symptoms of depression is a loss of interest in things you used to enjoy. You may even feel like you’ve lost your identity and you’re just not yourself. Doing activities that keep you in touch with what you love when you’re able can be a useful skill to deal with depression symptoms. Twitter users posting using the #HowIFightDepression hashtag shared plenty of ideas for what helped them.

“I try to make something. A poem, a song, a story. Anything that allows me to shift into creative mode,” shared Shane Koyczan. “That helps me get through the worst of it. I think completing a thing gives me a sense of peace. When my heart is broken I make art with the pieces.”

Other Twitter users shared activities like playing video games, making a gratitude list, writing, praying, spending time with loved ones and exercising have been helpful when they’re dealing with depression. Many also revealed therapy and medication are an important part of their mental health journey.

The #HowIFightDepression hashtag was also full of adorable furry faces of the pet companions who support their guardians’ mental health. For many who struggle, an animal can provide comfort and companionship. Plus, pets can also help when you have depression because animals keep you going, whether it’s taking your puppy for a walk or making sure the cat is fed.

“She knows when I’m feeling down, I dont know how but she always does,” Twitter user Janet said about her dog, Lily. “She rescued me!”

People on Twitter also used the #HowIFightDepression to share some hard truths about living with depression, and why it’s important to reach out for help.

“Remember that depression tells terrible lies,” Jenny Lawson tweeted. “They are so believable when I’m in that dark place, but whenever I crawl back out I can see clearly. You are so needed. Trust me.”

Twitter user Adam Koebel pointed out that depression isn’t always something you fight, but rather learn to cope with symptoms. Know that for depression, help is available, whether that’s reaching out to a professional or talking to people you love.

“You can’t fight it, that implies you can just win and it’s over,” Koebel tweeted. “Depression isn’t a combat scenario. It’s about developing tools to cope with it, live alongside it and not let it bring you down.”

One major theme throughout the conversation was the importance of remembering you are not fighting depression alone. There are others out there who get exactly what you’re going through. The fight against depression is stronger when we do it together.

“Having been down into the deepest pits of depression and having those who love me give me a ladder out, I hope to remember that the ladder exists – and to be there to extend the ladder to others,” Twitter user Neil said. “To remember there is always a way out. For me and others.”

To connect with a community that cares, head to our #CheckInWithMe page. There you can read stories and post a Mighty Thought or Question to give and get support. 

If you’re struggling, know you are not alone and help is available. If you need support right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or reach the Crisis Text Line by texting “START” to 741741.

Originally published: June 19, 2019
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