If you’re like a lot of people, you’re probably very busy at work. Juggling a corporate job and managing depression can seem like an impossible task. Especially if you are under a lot of pressure, the symptoms of your mental illness can be debilitating. The good news is that there are many people who successfully cope with their depression while taking on a full work schedule. In fact, there are plenty of simple changes you can make that can help make the process a little bit easier. Here are a few tips for managing your depression while working full-time:
Create a routine that includes time for both work and self-care
One of the best ways to manage your depression when you’re busy is to create a routine that includes time for both work and self-care. This might mean setting aside specific times each day for working on assignments and taking breaks to relax or it could mean allotting certain days of the week specifically for taking care of yourself. Either way, it’s important to make sure that you have time carved out for both activities.
That said, don’t be too hard on yourself if you can’t always stick to your routine. Life happens and there will inevitably be days when work takes up more time than you planned or you’re just not feeling the best. The important thing is that you try to stick to the routine as often as possible and don’t beat yourself up when things don’t go according to plan.
Update your workspace
Whether you work from home or in an office, it’s important to make sure your workspace is set up in a way that makes you comfortable and helps you stay productive. This might mean adjusting the lighting or decorating your space in a way that makes you feel happy. Some popular ways to do this are by hanging pictures of your favorite places or people, by adding plants to your desk, or by using colorful pens and notebooks.
Create a support system
Depression can be incredibly isolating, especially if you’re busy at work. It can be hard to find time to connect with friends and family, let alone open up about your mental illness. However, it’s important to have a support system in place if you want to manage your depression effectively. This could mean reaching out to friends and family members when you’re feeling low or joining an online support group for people with depression.
See a therapist
If you find that your depression is proving to be too difficult to manage on your own, it might be a good idea to see a therapist. Therapists can provide you with additional support and guidance as you work to manage your mental illness. They can also offer coping strategies specifically tailored to your needs.
If you work to a tight schedule, there are also lots of therapy options online that can fit into your busy schedule. For example, Talkspace offers online therapy that is convenient and affordable. If a therapist is licensed in your state, they can provide their services to anyone who lives there regardless of the city, so this can open up your options for treatment professionals as well.
Consider more intensive treatment
If your depression is not manageable with the tips listed above, it might be a good idea to consider more intensive treatment options. This could mean enrolling in an outpatient therapy program, taking medication for your depression, or even going through rehab for your depression. There are many inpatient and outpatient programs that are designed to help those with debilitating mental health disorders rehabilitate themselves.
Managing depression while working full-time can seem like a daunting task, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to feeling better in no time. Remember, though, that no one treatment option is right for everyone, so it’s important to explore all of your options and find the treatment plan that works best for you. Working with a mental health professional can be an invaluable resource as you search for the right treatment plan.