Thursday, February 12, 2009

Take Care of Yourself - Body and Spirit

If you have read The Job Loss Survival Guide you know that one of the problems that go along with job loss is depression. When you are depressed you aren't concerned with eating right, exercising, or keeping healthy in general. This is one of those situations where knowing what's going on is critical.

One thing you need to know is that in this case we are NOT talking about clinical depression - at least not usually. This depression is normal - as long as you work your way through it. It's not easy, but you can do it.

The main thing to do is remember that life is going on - it's up to you to keep up.

If you've ever had a broken arm or leg you can probably understand better what I'm talking about. When you broke it you found out right away that the world didn't stop to give you a chance to keep up. No one came up and said "I'll modify your car so it will be easier for you to drive." But you probably had to figure out a way to drive anyway. Or you had to get help from someone temporarily.

What you're going through right now doesn't involve a broken bone. It's your spirit that is bruised, or maybe broken. But it will heal - as long as you let it, and help it.

Exercise - even if you don't feel like it. Eat healthy food, even if you are not hungry (stay away from junk food as much as you can.) And be sure your spirit gets enough food and exercise, too.

You've heard the saying "the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak." Well, in this case the spirit may be saying "Go away. I'm tired." Your spirit may need a "personal trainer."

There are several ways to get that "personal trainer" and some of the best ones are basically free.
  • Volunteer to help with a worthy cause. When you get interested and concerned about others who have different problems than yours it helps yours to heal.
  • If you are a member of a church the other members can be a good resource for you. The church activities can help with the healing you need, too.
  • Support groups can help. Talking it out can be therapeutic. Especially if the ones you are talking to understand what you're going through.
  • This is the time that a close friend really is good to have, too.

Don't be afraid to get counseling if you find that you are "stuck."

0 comments:

Post a Comment