A Member's Tale of Overcoming Depression

The other day I was driving home from the gym. The sun was shining and my favourite song came on the radio. I became so overwhelmed with emotion, I began to cry.

And no, before you ask, it was not "that time of the month" (although, I do get highly emotional).

In fact, I was simply overcome with the feeling of happiness; something you seem to appreciate so much more when you've had to drag yourself from the pits of hell to get there.

A couple of years ago, I was failing uni. Both my parents had fallen ill and I had to start caring for my siblings. During this time, my mental health completely deteriorated. I became so depressed and anxious that I would never leave the house, let alone my bed.

I became complacent, overweight and I started living like a 'victim' (bad idea). When you live your life as a victim, you're almost giving yourself permission to crawl into a ball and not seek any help.

I don't know what happened the day I decided to take control of my health, but I guess I was just sick and tired of feeling so damn sick and tired.

I began my battle by practicing yoga in my bedroom (oh, to be a fly on the wall). Eventually, I mustered up enough courage to join the local gym. You know when you hear of those people who actually get addicted to torturing themselves with strenuous workouts? Well, I became one of them.

I began nourishing my body with the right foods, I started excelling in uni and I finally felt happy for the first time in a long time.

Now, of course this process didn't take place overnight. I had to stop identifying as a victim and start identifying as a badass warrior. When doubt started to rear its ugly head, I would smack it down with some positive affirmations.

All in all, I had to be kind to myself. Nourish both my body and mind. Be optimistic. Challenge myself. Compare myself to others less and, most importantly, seek help when I needed it.

Depression feels like it's never going to end, until it does. If you're interested in starting your journey, I suggest downloading the headspace app, as they offer relaxing, guided meditations, and for yoga, I suggest YogaWithAdriene on YouTube (she feels like a friend).

Sometimes it helps to chat with someone too, so check out beyond blue (1300 22 4636) or eHeadspace, if you’re looking to chat with a counsellor online.

Good luck. I hope you kick depression’s ass.

If you or anyone you know needs help, support is available right now. Call Lifeline on 131 114 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

Visit ReachOut to get support to help you with everything from everyday issues through to tough times.

Congratulations to Teghan for winning our weekly writing challenge. Teghan wins a $50 Westfield gift card for her submission. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Comps section. Also, be sure to follow this guide on how to win the writing challenge!

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