One thing that is not often talked about is personal hygiene; however, it is something that can be a problem during depressive episodes. Sometimes, depression can get so bad that it is almost impossible to get out of bed or off the couch and take a shower. I admit that this is one of my struggles during the deeper parts of my depression. In fact, this was a problem just a couple of weeks ago. My mom was the one who helped me and got me to shower every day. She just kept talking to me about it, without any judgement. Once I was showering every day, it gave me the energy to complete other daily tasks.
Poor personal hygiene can frequently be a sign for a depressive episode. In my experience, I was unable to take care of myself. I also remember not being able to get up to feed the dog. Self neglect, or neglecting one’s daily tasks is not only a sign of depression, but it can also make the depression worse. It’s a vicious cycle, which can often make depression harder to get out of. I’m grateful that I have someone to lookout for me when I can’t lookout for myself. I hope that everyone has someone to help them through these difficult and embarrassing times.
My Side of the Pole 
Going through that now. Mornings are great, but afternoons are not.
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That’s difficult to go through. I hope it doesn’t last too long for you.
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I’m glad you have your mom to look out for you when you can’t. But I’m learning now, since I don’t have anyone for anything anymore, that the time gap between going into the self destructive part of depression and snapping out of it for survival reduces when only you are accountable for yourself. It is extremely difficult and takes a toll. But it is possible. I don’t know how long it’ll last or when I’ll not snap back into taking care of myself… But until then 🙂 Problem is that now if someone were to try helping me, I’d just let go. Coz the break I’ll get will be too tempting to resist. Hahaha…
Hope things get better for you. And yes, we should talk about these things. Personal hygiene even for cleanliness obsessed people like me takes a hit when depression kicks in. Good job. 🙂
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Even if you don’t have family or friends to help you during difficult times, remember that you have this blogging community to support you. You have created a group of people who care and are there for you.
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Thank you. Really… Thank you.
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Such a great topic and so true, thanks for sharing!
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Thank you.
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That’s actually one of the ways my husband can definitively tell when I’m in a depressive episode. I stop showering. It’s gross, really, but I think at the time I feel like it’s totally pointless. Anyway, you’re not alone in this!
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Thank you, I appreciate knowing I’m not alone.
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