I've found that a high intensity workout is more effective than a low one - even comparing a jog to a run.

A few weeks ago, I could feel the depression setting in, and several runs that started with 8 minute miles didn't seem to stop it. So I resolved to go faster (read: got pissed and sprinted), ran a 6:21 mile (my fastest since I started measuring last year) and it was like spring cleaning for my brain.

As a fellow sufferer of depression, I can relate and agree that the more intense the effort the greater the release of hormones/feelings which appear to suppress the depressive symptoms. That being said however, I have found long walks of a low intensity have been especially useful. Particularly on trails or hiking, the constant mindfulness of each step over rocks and roots helps put me in a meditative trance.

Solvitur Ambulando, it is solved by walking

>Solvitur Ambulando, it is solved by walking

This is really interesting, in my martial art, which I did extremely actively in my youth - but far less now -- one of the sayings is "Keep walking" and "Keep moving"

The "Keep walking" is even used in some of the learning of actual techniques -- you move into a certain position with your Uke, and then... keep walking... and it executes the throw.

Keep walking is also used when talking about meditation in their teachings as well... movement meditation.

So you literally walked it off. Perhaps there's wisdom in that saying.

I'm not a mental health professional but I suffer from depression. It's not an extreme case but it's still quite painful. I urge you to continue striving to throw off that grey veil that shrouds life. I can assure you that the first glimpse of brightness and clear vision will come, even after weeks of crushing hopelessness.

Even when my brain's biochemical state is fucked and broken and makes me want to hide and disappear, I can remember that it will change and I will feel better and that I do have some degree of control over it. You seem very self-aware, which is an enormous challenge when one is depressed. That means that you have one of the tools to escape depression. Remember that.

It may sound trite, but fuck it. Just keep on going. You will feel better.

Edit: If you can, try to find a professional counselor or psychiatrist. If nothing else, they're exceptionally good listeners.

Thank you.

I was going to counseling - until I couldn't afford her any longer.

I have children - so they keep me aware, and here.