How do you do it when you're depressed?

I'm in the same funk. Something with the moon, maybe? My kids are a little older and sense it. They either act out, like the other mama mentioned, or give me extra hugs. Take it easy on yourself, abandon the need to stick to routines or get the laundry done or whatever else may stress you. I'm going to go cuddle with my kiddos and bring it back to basics. I truly do have so much to be happy about. But first I must write the blog that led me to log on tonight... Be well~

I use my kids to get me out of my funk. I force myself to talk to them, and in a cheerful voice.

I heard a report on NPR when S was a babe about how moms with depression talk to their kids monotone or not at all, and that it was detrimental to their child's development. I am not saying you have something to feel bad about if you don't feel like talking much for a day or two, and I am not laying mama guilt on top of your funk. I just always kept that in mind, and talked to HIM like I was happy to be with him, and it seemed to work to lift me out of my funk.

Good luck.

Sunflower the unflower

My Tinfoil Hat

i can totally relate! after our move, it felt like i put myself on emmotional bedrest. i dealt with, and still am dealing with the same type of stuff you're describing. what helped me, (and i obviously am no expert) was a change of scenery. i'd force myself to get out of the house and go somewhere that i could be around people with energy. (i.e. browsing the fabric store, going to the park, the gym or outdoor trails around our house) and for some reason, that always gave me a charge. as for passing a lot of your day in silence, maybe try music as a backdrop. when i notice that our day has been too quiet, i'll put on music that i like to sing and/or dance too(a lot of times i'll dance with ms.q). it helps to lift my spirits and i feel like i'm getting in some quality time with my dd. i don't know if that will help you at all, but i hope so!

"We coffee drinkers in the developed countries can pay $2 or more for a premium cup of coffee. But many small farmers in the underdeveloped world are lucky to live on $2 a day."

-SoJoBlend:Brewing Up Justice

I am like this quite a lot, and though I've never been diagnosed, my dad seems to be quite positive that I have seasonal affective disorder (I'm not even sure if that's the right name for it). It's pretty much a depression brought on by a lack of sunshine. I suggest getting as much sun as you can. Go sit outside for awhile, or take a walk around the neighborhood. Even if it's not so sunny, just being outside observing nature or even going somewhere like a bookstore or coffee shop where I can be around other people helps me sometimes.

going to the gym so he can swap germs with other little monsters while I work out in peace and quiet. Then I try to involve him more in what I do. Helping me with chores...we baked a cake from scratch the other day which was interesting to say the least. You just need to get down on the floor and interact. Stop all the tv's and phones and radios and just play with your child.

As long as there is interaction and basic needs are met, it is my opinion that you are clearly showing your tot that it is ok to feel sad, be quiet, and rest. Play music if you are worried that is is too quiet for him. Especially if you don't feel that it is a serious depression, and that you know it will pass. Better that he learn it is ok now, than supression and denial. Besides, I am certain you make up for the down time when you are feeling good.

I hope you feel better soon.

Sometimes making myself talk to my kids is the only thing that keeps me from sinking down in it. I know it's hard when they can't talk back but maybe you could try going out for a walk and talking with your little one about everything you see and being outside always seems to help me. Your guy will be fine just make sure you take care of yourself too.

A good friend of mine has that. She bought a "happy light". It's a lamp that somehow mimics the sun's effects on your mood. She swears by it. I think she got it online somewhere.