Social withdrawal is not always bad, nor is it always harmful. Sometimes we just need a little quiet time to reboot. 

But people with a severe mood disorder need to know where to draw the line. We understand the fatigue that comes with a bad depressive episode – when just getting out of bed in the morning is difficult and interacting with other people feels insurmountable. 

Although it is usual to avoid social contact when your mood is low, beware that it does not become a depression trap.

Is Isolation the Answer? 

Isolating yourself is a depression trap. 

Depression traps are behaviours that worsen an existing depressive state and create a vicious cycle. 

Human beings are designed for social interaction with others. Without connection with other humans, we lack a sense of belonging. 

Dangers of Isolation.

Isolation in depression increases the stress response in the brain and worsens the illness and how we feel.

While depression can lead to isolation, being alone can worsen depressive symptoms- anxiety, feelings of worthlessness and suicidal thoughts. 

Secluding yourself can leave you anticipating negative results that can stop you from making an effort. It makes you vulnerable to spending large amounts of time and energy dwelling on negative thoughts that decrease your feeling of self-worth and lead to negative self-talk.

Isolating yourself when depressed puts you at risk of interpreting your life as a failure. 

For example 

  • My life is hopeless 
  • I can never do anything right 
  • Nobody wants to be friends with people like me.

Finding Empathetic Support.

Reach out to people who make an effort to understand your condition. 

Keep a list of empathetic friends or family members that will not overwhelm you.

Don’t feel forced to be around too many people.

Those who have an empathetic approach ask appropriate questions that will help them to help you. 

  • Can you help me understand how you are feeling?
  • Are you able to concentrate on things right now? كازينو البحرين
  • Do you have thoughts of death or suicide? 1xbet casino
  • How are your energy levels?
  • Are you sleeping more or less than usual?

Avoid people who invalidate your condition and feelings. Phrases such as “tomorrow will be better” or “try to cheer up” do not consider the illness’s nature.

In what practical ways can an empathetic person help you? 

There are many ways that an empathetic person can help you through this phase of wanting to isolate. Knowing that someone has your back and someone caring will work through this challenge with you can boost your morale. 

Don’t be reluctant to accept help. Getting back into a healthy routine with support will go a long way to lifting your energy. Here are some ideas. 

  • Keeping track of appointments and medications
  • Do some physical activity together most days
  • Plan and prepare healthful meals together
  • Make goals small and achievable
  • Plan fun activities together

Support groups 

Support groups allow people to share personal experiences, feelings and coping strategies with others who have gone through simial experiences. 

It is also possible to reach out through online support groups and apps dedicated to supporting people who experience mental health challenges. 

It is impossible to overestimate the therapeutic bond between a depressed individual and supporting loved ones.