Depression should be treated by a doctor and these are only suggestions to help with other treatments.
Once upon a time there was this girl and she had a great family. She had great friends and a wonderful home. Even though she had a great life, she slept more than 8 hours a day. She woke up disappointed in life and struggled to get anything done. Her body would hurt and felt sluggish every time she went to get anything done. She felt sad even though there was not reason to. Why did she feel this way? Have you ever felt this way? What are some ways to battle depression?
Depression effects so many of us and many don’t realize that it is depression. I have had depression for over 20 years. Medications can help, but aren’t reliable in the long run. I have had to change medicines a lot. So I learned mindfulness, then I used mindfulness in my art. Mindfulness is being in the present moment with out judgement. Art can help you be in the present moment and practice not judging yourself.
I have five art projects that can help with depression.
- An Art Journal that is made out of an old book.
This particular book is a Thesaurus funny enough. I ripped some of the pages through out the book so that I can add thickness to my entries. I painted the front and added fun stamps and stencils. Inside in the photos shown was my first entry of this book. This entry was, “I am who I am.” You have to love yourself before anyone else is going to. Be honest with yourself. Work out who you really are in these pages. If you are having a negative day, put it on the page and shut the book. Think of it as a visual meditation. Visit each entry as a reminder of yourself and your growth.
2. Zentangle/Doodling-
Try taking a class in Zentagle (they have them at craft stores) or there are plenty of books about it. It is the ultimate doodling experience! I wouldn’t have gotten through college without doodling! LOL! Zentangle is truly a meditative experience. I have several books that teach you.
3. Coloring
Coloring is a great way to relax and help order your thoughts. There are so many grown up coloring books out there. I get most of mine on Amazon. My favorites are by Johanna Basford. She hides shapes in her scenes so as your coloring you can find them. It reminds me of my childhood and Highlights magazine, but more fancy.
4. Painting–
Painting can be for everyone! There are sip and paint stores everywhere that give you step by step instructions on how to paint a beautiful painting. You can host one at your house! There are many ideas on Pinterest and I have a board named sip and paint to check out on my Pinterest page. Below is a painting I just worked on for the Fall.
5. Nature Hike/Collage-
Hiking and walking are great for depression. Sometimes you can find fun items that you can use in paintings or collages. There are lots of ideas on Pinterest too, just type in “art using nature.” Pinterest is a great resource to find art ideas! Rocks are fun to make into things as well. I made my family with rocks on a canvas one time.
There are so many other things you can do to help with your depression. I know you feel alone, but DON’T. Here are some resources if you feel you need them:
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
https://www.verywellmind.com/depression-statistics-everyone-should-know-4159056
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
I hope you enjoyed this blog entry!
Lisa
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