Life is hard. No one on the face of the Earth disagrees. Sometimes, things get exceptionally painful. No one wants to hurt. When we do, though, it can be difficult to get better, not for lack of want. The reasons for depression come in every flavor, but the result is the same. People who become depressed suffer without hope. However, there is hope when things are bad. For those who hurt because of recent events, I hope to give some hope and advice to those in need. 

Let Yourself Hurt

A key element to getting better when going through hard times is to let yourself hurt. Some people will tell you to stop crying, “just get over it,” or just don’t think about it. However, emotions are NATURAL. Everyone has them and feels them in their own ways.

The reason we hurt and cry is to process and release our emotions. There is no right or wrong way to approach it, but not allowing yourself time to grieve will only repress the pain. It keeps you from understanding why you have these emotions. Don’t let someone tell you that your feelings aren’t valid or that you shouldn’t feel bad.

Don’t Sit Still

When you are depressed, and all you want is to sit around and suffer, remember that motion can heal. This point is second because you don’t always have to move. Sometimes you should give yourself time. However, allowing your life to collapse because of that is not good.

You should sometimes stop thinking and crying to provide yourself with a reprieve. Do this in your own time, not someone else’s.

I will sit around for several days and do nothing and will ignore someone telling me not to. However, I also know that moving around, cleansing my environment, feeding myself, and taking care of my responsibilities will make me feel accomplished. I’m not better, but I feel things are better in my life. It is all about our emotions, after all.

The Tunnel Ends

Maybe the most important thing is that the pain ends. It might not seem like it, but time will heal your wounds. Day by day, week by week, time will pass.

You should do everything you can to keep strong and fight for a better future. Seek out help. Make your environment one that heals you rather than hurts you, one that makes your life better over time. The tunnel can be long, but there is light at the end. Every step brings you closer.

When the weight is bearable, take it and carry it.

When it’s not, unload the weight for a while and rest. 

Depression is complicated, and there is no right or wrong for how to deal with it. Seek help if needed. Your body and mind are what will bring you happiness and fulfillment, so take care of them as if they were someone you care for. 

Images by Haley Agra. Support her on Instagram: haleiagra

For more Lifestyle articles like these, sign up for the LowKey Journalism Newsletter. Leave your thoughts in the comments below.