Post AXM3pMxc25pZBbVePQ by ComradeDeath@nnia.space
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 (DIR) Post #AXM3pMxc25pZBbVePQ by ComradeDeath@nnia.space
       2023-07-04T15:24:09Z
       
       0 likes, 2 repeats
       
       I think the problem with a lot of the stereotypically bad mental health advice, and specifically depression advice (e.g. go outside more, exercise, practice mindfulness, positive thinking, etc.) isn't that it is actually bad advice. In fact, it's good advice. Of course it's not going to help everyone, but studies have shown that many people with depression profit from doing these things.I think the problem with this sort of advice, and the reason why it has such a bad reputation among mentally ill people, is that it is 1) a lot easier said than done, 2) often presented as some magical cure for depression, which it definitely isn't and, in a similar vein, 3) often phrased in a disrespectful and invalidating way (e.g. "you have no reason to be depressed, just focus on the positive things in your life").When presented in a better way, this advice can be helpful. Step one is understanding how depression works, and that it is not the same as being in a bad mood or feeling tired, which may be fixed by going on a walk or thinking nice thoughts, but a genuine illness which takes months, if not years, to recover from. Step two is asking whether the person with depression actually wants advice, and to respect if they don't. Sadly, most people fail at both of these basic steps.Step three is acknowledging that someone who barely has the energy for everyday tasks like getting out of bed, taking a shower, brushing their teeth, etc. can't just start exercising. Depending on how bad a person's depression is, you need to start with small steps. Instead of exercising, they could just do a few stretches. Instead of going on a walk, they could just sit on their balcony for five to ten minutes. Instead of positive thinking, they could take a minute each evening to try and think of just one good thing about their day, even if it's something small.Step four is offering help with things they struggle with, e.g. "Would it be easier for you to go on walks if we went together?", "We could look up some quick and easy exercises you can do at home", etc. And to respect it if they decline, of course.If someone actually follows these steps, or even just the first three steps, then I think this stereotypically bad mental health advice can actually be great advice. Because it's not the advice that sucks, it's the people giving the advice who do.