How do you know if you just feel like chilling out or you’re being unproductive due to overwhelming sadness? Differentiating the two is essential so that the proper intervention can be identified. Moreover, we don’t want to discourage a depressed person even more by dismissing him as lazy.
The Psych2Go link below gives an overview of the differences between laziness and depression. In the other clips, world-renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Jordan Peterson explains the principles that are necessary for coping if you’re depressed. While Dr. Peterson’s tips can help you break through, remember to consult professionals who can provide you with individualized interventions. Every person with depression is different. Some may benefit from counseling only. Some people will need a combination of counseling and medication. And there are those who will gain a lot from occupational therapy!
The tip from Dr. Peterson that struck me the most was his advice to resist the incentives to be depressed. An example of this is when a relative continues to give you money because you’re unmotivated to find a job. Why work if someone’s funding you anyway? According to Dr. Peterson, giving in to these incentives will reinforce your lack of structure. Then you’ll get depressed even more upon realizing that your inaction caused more overwhelming chaos. Dr. Peterson adds that people might be incentivizing your unproductivity because they want you to fail.
Feel free to send me a message at upskillstreet@gmail.com if you or your loved ones are struggling with depression. I can refer you to caring and competent mental health professionals. Plus I’ll be happy to chat with you to get to know you.
6 Signs You’re Depressed, Not Lazy by Psych2Go
Advice for People with Depression by Jordan Peterson, PhD, clinical psychologist (compiled by Bite-sized Philosophy)
High-Functioning Depression & How to Overcome Misery by Jordan Peterson, PhD, clinical psychologist (compiled by Essential Truth)
Look Where You Least Want To by Jordan Peterson, PhD, clinical psychologist (compiled by WordToTheWise)
(Photo from Canva)
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