There’s a certain double edged sword in the formation of habits. With depression/anxiety you need a certain degree of habits to keep you going. At the same time however some habits become too much of a safety zone. I’m certainly not immune to them but here’s what’s worked and what hasn’t worked for me.
Grooming Habits — In an effort to be more eco-friendly I switched away from my classic Gillette Mach 5’s and went old school. I opted to use the classic safety razor process. During the most severe point of major depression amid my divorce I found the process of cleaning my razor equipment, having to manually whip up my shaving soap and the actual attention needed during a shave, helped me focus on keeping up my appearances. It’s a small thing but it did help me cope.
Eating Habits — This one isn’t always a good thing. I’ve tried to focus on healthier eating (less fried foods, home made natural yogurt, sous vide cooking) but while the intent was well meaning it had an unforeseen side effect. I started to go out less and simply would always eat something I made. This cut down on my desire to go out considerably. In some sense it was the most double edged coping tool. While I’ve ceased binge eating and eating things that are too high in sugars or fat I have had to find a way to balance that with my lack of interaction/socialization.
After Work Habits — Probably the weakest of my habits. I haven’t gotten into exercise as I should. Knee injuries, a bad back sort of make fitness the last thing I want to do. I am trying to find ways to get myself motivated more to get out and about but it may be the most difficult coping tool (despite it really being one of the more effective ones).
The biggest thing with any habit, you have to decide, focus and make it something you can turn into a routine without becoming a rut. Know when to break from them and mix it up. I’m still working weekly to find activities that are positive that I can sink my teeth into but it can be a difficult endeavor so don’t get frustrated if it doesn’t come easily or all at once.
