5 ways to find motivation when you’re depressed

Depression robs you of your motivation. A debilitating mental illness like this one can make even the simplest tasks seem impossible. The first step is acknowledging that you must find ways to better cope with the depression and not let it defeat you. Remember, it’s okay not to be okay. But, it is possible to find motivation when depressed.

How to find motivation when depressed

Let’s start with the most important one. Reaching out to a professional.

1. Talk with a professional

If you’re struggling with depression, the first step is to reach out to your doctor or therapist. They can help diagnose depression and develop a treatment plan.

A therapist can also teach you healthy coping mechanisms and give you tools to deal with difficult situations. Medication might also be prescribed as part of your treatment plan.

Once you start treatment, you’ll likely have more energy. For me, I found myself feeling more balanced after speaking with my doctor, realizing I have depression, and getting on a medication that worked well for me.

2. More ways to find motivation: Set small goals

One of the hardest things about depression is that it can make even the simplest task feel like an insurmountable hurdle. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to accomplish everything all at once.

Break your goals into smaller pieces and focus on taking things one step at a time. Pick one or two things to do each day, such as taking a shower or getting dressed. Yes, it starts with self-care and personal hygiene.

You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment as you accomplish these goals, and that helps build motivatation to keep going. You are starting to take care of your mental health, and that’s huge!

3. Reach out for support

Reaching out for support when you’re struggling with depression is important. Actually, it’s vital.

Talk to a friend or family, join a support group, or see a therapist. Talking about what you’re going through can help you feel better and may give you some new perspective.

Talking with someone who understands what you’re going through can be incredibly helpful. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or therapist, opening up about your feelings will help you to feel less alone and start getting tools to deal with the illness.

4. Be patient

Recovery from depression takes time, so be patient with yourself. Don’t expect to snap out of it overnight.

Instead, focus on small daily improvements. Trust that things will improve in time.

5. Find an activity that makes you happy for motivation

Depression can make it hard to find enjoyment in anything. But it’s important to try and find an activity that brings you joy.

It doesn’t matter if it’s something that is seemingly small. The important thing is that you’re doing something that makes you happy.

Whether listening to music, reading a book, or running a warm bath, taking the time for activities you like can help improve your mood. That gives you something to look forward to.

Treatment for depression

Finding motivation when you’re depressed can seem impossible, but it’s not insurmountable. By talking to your doctor, setting small goals, reaching out for support, and being patient, you can find the motivation to recover from depression and live a healthier, happier life.

If you’re struggling with depression, know that you’re not alone. Try breaking up your goals into smaller pieces, talking to someone who understands, and finding an activity that makes you happy.

These tips, along with treatment for depression, can help with finding long-term recovery. I know these things have helped me greatly.