THE ART OF SELF-HEALING

Depression is one of the most significant illnesses of the modern world. It can arise due to various factors such as intense work schedules, school stress, family issues, environmental influences, and personal losses.

Symptoms such as persistent anxiety, feelings of helplessness, irritability and anger, loss of concentration, sleep disturbances, chronic sadness, hopelessness, physical pain like headaches, and forgetfulness may indicate depression. If these emotions begin to disrupt daily life, interfere with decision-making, or hinder taking responsibility, seeking professional help is essential. Depression negatively impacts one’s quality of life and relationships with others. If diagnosed by a specialist, it must be treated.

Many people mistakenly use the phrase “I’m depressed” to describe temporary feelings of sadness. However, as mentioned above, depression is a serious illness that affects all aspects of life and requires proper treatment.

Temporary mood swings or emotional distress, which we might call a “bad mood,” are short-lived, unstable emotional states. Given the recent pandemic and earthquake traumas, many of us have undoubtedly experienced depressive days.

However, if we frequently experience feelings of unease, low morale, lack of motivation, worthlessness, reluctance, or failure in daily life, it is crucial to pay attention.

How Can We Overcome These Negative Emotional States?

As the old saying goes, “Be your own doctor.” In essence, knowing yourself, your emotions, and your body is vital. One must make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones and remain open to change. Studies show that individuals with strong self-awareness tend to think more positively about themselves, feel better, and develop self-love. People who understand what makes them happy can make choices that accelerate their healing.

Here are some recommendations to help overcome a depressive state:

• Don’t fall into hopelessness.

• Distance yourself from sources of stress.

• Spend more time with family and friends.

• Express your emotions.

• Live in the present without dwelling on the past.

• Read personal development books.

• Take walks.

• Engage in dance and sports activities.

• Practice yoga and meditation.

• Do breathing exercises.

• Take vitamin supplements.

• Make time for hobbies you love.

• Look at the sky.

• Touch the trees.

• Spend more time in nature.

• Feed stray animals.

• Pet cats 😊

• Stop dwelling on past mistakes; be at peace with yourself.

Incorporating one or more of these activities into your daily life can elevate your energy and shift your mood to a more positive state. Once we free ourselves from these unhealthy emotions, we enhance our quality of life.

Lately, I, too, have been trying to lift myself out of a low mood. I’m working to break free from my social withdrawal. Even after the earthquake, I still don’t feel the desire to re-engage with life.

Someone once asked a Bektashi dervish:“What is the easiest and hardest thing in the world?”The Bektashi replied:“The easiest is giving advice, the hardest is knowing oneself.”

I think I need a little more time. But don’t mind me 😊 Take action now.

We will be fine.The days when we fill our sails with strong winds and set off saying 'Vira Bismillah' are near.

With love…

Seher BAKIM