"Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.” -Jim Rohn
More than 264 million people worldwide are dealing with depression. Yet, many societies and cultures still consider it a taboo subject. This attitude pushes individuals into the depths of despair.
I was one of those people.
There was a time when I found comfort in food instead of company. My unhealthy habits resulted in a series of health problems that fueled my depressive episodes.
I hit rock bottom too many times for people to take my worries and fears seriously.
Living in the Netherlands has changed my perception and how I coped with undesirable events. I share my story in “The Battle Within: Fighting Depression & Obesity” to provide others with a roadmap towards recovery.
Here is a sneak peek into the life lessons I learned while dealing with depression and obesity:
1. Love Your Self
When you’ve lived your life in fear, you never truly escape the feelings of self-doubts. That is how I remember my childhood and teenage years. I spent a significant part of my life under the shadows because I felt worthless.
Stepping out of that zone is a constant battle of negative emotions. Even with a loving partner and a healthy support system, the ugly head of self-loathing makes an appearance. You can break this vicious cycle through perseverance and self-love. Replace disruptive routines with healthy lifestyle choices. Also, repeat affirmations and count your blessings to identify positive aspects of your life.
As a result, you will start gaining confidence and taking things in stride.
2. Pursue Your Passion
Uprooting my life from Chile to Thailand and then to the Netherlands transformed me in several ways. One of the driving factors during these moves was my passion for studies and profession. I wanted to break free from the suffocating life and stand on my feet.
The change itself helped me untangle myself from negative thoughts. Even then, depression clung onto me like an old friend. I started throwing myself into work and enrolling in social activities that kept the darkness at bay.
3. Connect with Others
Coming to the Netherlands was a fresh start for me. The positive environment and supportive community made me a better person. Some people here appreciate diversity and encourage others to become the best version of themselves.
I feel blessed to have such a strong support system amongst friends, family, and colleagues. Some of my business leaders and mentors willingly lend a hand and create new opportunities for me. At the same time, my loving partner cheers me on from the sidelines.
They taught me that I couldn’t deal with depression alone. Instead of shunning people away, we should let them help us step into a healthier and happier path.
The Takeaways
In short, dealing with depression has been an uphill battle. My persistence and resilience kept me motivated despite failures. Plus, focusing on my passion and accepting help from a supportive social circle were equally beneficial. Most advantageous, though, was my journey of self-love and compassion.
Read The Battle Within: Fighting Depression & Obesity to uncover my secrets.
Hopefully, my life lessons would assist you in accepting change.
Credits:
- Photos by Imgar
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