The Couch Post

It’s raining over here where I am.  It has actually been raining off and on, with no clear end in sight, for a while now.  For some, this weather is much appreciated. They relish it and look forward to the time ahead. For others, the rain, dark clouds, and occasional lightning strike, may mimic a mood that is all too familiar.  For those with depression or a tendency to feel depressed, rainy days may seem to be an extension of an ongoing, unwanted mood.  Here is what we all can learn from those rainy days that may happen a little too frequently or seem to never want to let up.

1. It does not last always. Make the most of the sunshine, however short it may be.  If only just enjoying the ten minutes of tea, take it in and be present for that entire ten minutes.  After that moment is done, think about it, snap a picture, or even write about it. Do whatever you need to do to categorize it in your brain as the best ten minutes you’ve experienced since the previous ten minutes.  That may sound a little silly but our brains, and your mood, needs frequent reminders of the good moments.  When the dark clouds don’t seem to let up, take a moment to browse through those saved insta stories, read that journal entry, or simply think back on a happier time or accomplishment.  A positive shift in mood may depend on those previously stored memories of happy. Record them often!

2. Like life, the weather is unpredictable.  Depression (or depressed moods) can be unpredictable, roll with it.  Accept that it is there and make the proper adjustments.  Just as the onset of a storm may send you frantically searching for that forgotten umbrella in the back seat, or even continuously circling Target’s parking lot to find the nearest parking spot, you must do the same when a depressed mood starts to set in.  Take the time to ask yourself “what adjustments, if any, do I need to make right now?”  The adjustment may be to call a friend or to set up an appointment with that one therapist you really like.  It may also be that much needed time alone or giving yourself a moment to cry.  Whatever it is, recognize it and make an adjustment.

3. There is growth that comes from the rain.  We all know nature comes alive after a good rainstorm.  Those dormant seeds suddenly find the strength to grow above surface.  Your own rain clouds may be trying to push you to the surface of your own life. To be present and triumphant in the moment, take time to listen to your inner wants, needs, or sorrows during these times.  What are those thoughts trying to tell you?  There will be growth after that recognition and as you continue to push through the soil.

4. The rain can be loved.  I mentioned earlier that there are some that just love the rain. Ask any rain lover and they may tell you, the rain and even the thunder strikes can be soothing.  Some like to sit and just listen, while others view it as an opportunity to get the best 30-minute nap of their lives.  They accept it and find its beauty. Is it possible to accept the sad moments for what it is and love ourselves enough to find the beauty in the struggle?  That universal struggle, that life can just sometimes be plain unfair and not make a bit of sense.  Love those who are going through similar struggles or different struggles all together.  Just remember to love and appreciate yourself for simply making it through another unwanted storm.