Once one begins feeling a little better it is good to start thinking in relapses prevention.
Some days ago I wrote a complete plan for the prevention of relapses (based on the CBT program) but I have to tell you that when I finished writing it I felt overwhelmed with so many things to do and I didn’t believed in the plan because it was not practical. I also realized that each person is different and what works for one person could not work for another.
For example, in addition to depression I also have problems with anxiety and have a natural tendency to be a perfectionist. Even thought I found most of the CBT techniques very effective there were a few who made things worse (especially anxiety) or weren’t useful at all.
However I still need to work on something and came up with the following plan which is based on the CBT techniques that have worked with me so far:
- I plan to use one or more of the following activities: Mood Tracker, Activity Tracker and Thought Records.
- It is good to calm down my racing mind and will keep practicing relaxing activities such as yoga and meditation. For me these are pleasant activities which is a bonus.
- I am not alone in this fight against depression and I will keep participating in online support groups.
- From time to time I will think in the things I am thankful for so I could reinforce my positive core beliefs
I already have some evidence that working on the points I mentioned it is enough to lower my levels of depression and anxiety. I also noticed that when my levels of depression and anxiety are low I naturally start being more communicative and assertive, do pleasant activities more frequently and work on goals.
I would appreciate any feedback or suggestions about my plan.