Episode 82: Motivation, by host, Laura Milkins. Our guest, Jamie Moon, tells the story of her depression and how recognizing that she was deeply depressed helped her leave an abusive relationship. Sunday, March 11, 2018.
Jamie Moon’s Website: https://www.jamiemoonart.com/
Article from Healthline.com – excepts
Motivation and Depression: What’s the Connection?
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/depression-motivation-tips
Depression and motivation
Lack of motivation is a symptom of depression, but it may be caused by something else. For example, you may lack motivation if you are having difficulties coping with an issue in your life or if you are experiencing something that affects your self-confidence.
If depression is responsible for your lack of motivation, you may find that your level of motivation is directly related to how depressed you are feeling. If you or a loved one is feeling a lack of motivation due to depression, there are ways to help improve the situation.
It may seem hard at first, but persistence will help feed the growing sense of motivation, and you will find that over time it becomes easier to get up and do things.
Tips to get and stay motivated
If the thought of doing anything seems overwhelming, start small. Set small, manageable goals. As you meet these goals, you can start adding more on top of them until you ultimately achieve all of your goals. Here are some suggestions to get you started.
1. Get out of bed and out of pajamas
2. Go for a walk
3. Get your hands dirty in order to get a mood lift
According to a study with mice, a certain type of bacteria found in dirt (Mycobacterium vaccae) may enhance the production of serotonin. Serotonin, in turn, helps decrease the symptoms of depression.
Bacteria found in fermented foods, such as yogurt, can also enhance moods by reducing anxiety and potentially improving symptoms of depression.
4. Don’t overschedule
5. Avoid negativity
6. Stick to a routine
7. Socialize
8. Create a support network
9. Get enough sleep
The Depression Session 