GoodKarma.org

sunny,

I went through a period of discontent and horrible sadness a couple years ago after a series of events. I felt so hopeless and like there was nothing I really wanted to be doing with myself. I've never been religious at all, but I started reading some of the principles and stories of buddhism (it's more of a philosophy than a religion) and began meditating. It helps you clear your mind a release feelings of sadness. I began to see beauty in more things and was able to communicate myself better. I also started doing yoga. I had no idea that just making my body feel better would positively influence my mind so much.

Honestly, what has really pulled me out of the rut has been going back to school. Applying myself to projects, listening to interesting people, and beginning to interact with people in a neutral environment where the conversation topic is already determined made a "reintegration" into normal life much easier. Whether school is a possibility or not, applying yourself and making goals (whatever they may be) gives you something to focus your energies on. If you are on task, everything troublesome seems to slip away. Eventually, you may find the depression unfamiliar and sort of like a ghost that you are not sure if it's even still there. It doesn't have to be there anymore. It's this mental fixation that seems irremovable but can be forgotten about if you decide there are more important things you want--and can-- do.

It's tough, it sucks, and you are going to have to step out of your comfort zone--but you can do it. Read about "the three marks of existence" and the concept of "impermanence."

Good luck and best wishes, thp