Depression significantly affected my ability to engage in daily activities and maintain self-care routines. I often found it difficult to identify interests or set goals for myself. My counselor suggested that I create a vision board to help clarify my aspirations; however, I sometimes struggled to find motivation to participate.
For me, depression was characterized by persistent emptiness and a lack of interest, not just occasional sadness. My symptoms gradually developed—I frequently cancelled plans, spent more time sleeping, and replied to fewer messages. Over time, even basic tasks like getting out of bed, showering, changing clothes, or preparing meals seemed unnecessary or overwhelming because my motivation diminished.
Social isolation was also part of my experience with depression. I left texts unanswered and often declined social activities—not because I wanted to avoid others, but because social interaction felt too overwhelming. Activities that used to bring me joy, such as going to lunch with my friends, making crafts, taking voice lessons and singing, no longer appealed to me.
Finally after receiving the advice I needed, I began to work a few mornings a week. Then I decided to quit that job and serve a mission for my job, also a few mornings a week. Those opportunities helped me establish a routine that allowed me to have the courage to start taking college classes online. This helped me build a sense of accomplishment and improve my self-esteem. While these actions did not eliminate my depression, they fostered a sense of purpose and gradual improvement.
Depression often convinced me that change was unlikely or that reaching out wouldn’t help. Still, there were helpful strategies and support from others available, and I reminded myself that recovery was possible. Managing my depression meant staying connected with my counselor and putting in the effort to build new habits and tackle challenges a little at a time.
Jen Bengtzen
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