Introvert's Guide to Coping with Depression

I am an introvert who is coping with depression. Being introverted is a personality trait where I thrive on independence and recharge mentally when alone. I can also become emotionally drained when I'm in social settings, including at work. So, how am I, as an introvert, supposed to reach out for help and not become entirely isolated when I'm experiencing an episode of depression? Even though it has been difficult, within the last year, I have come up with some ways of coping with my depression that do not emotionally drain me but allow me not to become isolated.

Tips for an Introvert Coping with Depression

Here are three tips for coping with depression when you're an introvert:

1. Go outside. I know it sounds silly, but it does work. For me, when I am going through a bout of depression, my apartment becomes my shield from the outside world. So, other than having to take my pup out for bathroom purposes (he's not a walking kind of dog), I would never go out the front door of my sanctuary when I am depressed. This then leads to isolation and not being motivated to cope with how I am feeling. Thus, I tell myself I must go outside for 10 minutes, whether walking to the mailbox or driving with the window down. I show myself that there is still life outside my apartment.  
2. Text a loved one. I was diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) in 2010. Unfortunately, it took until just last year to realize and admit to myself that I'm not alone in living with MDD -- I do have a couple of people in my life who genuinely care and who I can reach out to when I am feeling unwell, even if it is just a text. The text doesn't have to say that I'm feeling down -- it is meant to open that human interaction without putting on a mask or depleting what little energy I have left. It could even start a conversation that may help begin my recovery. Admittedly, I don't particularly appreciate explaining why I feel the way I do. Because, frankly, I usually don't know. Thus, sending a simple text shields me from having to do just that.
3. Schedule a monthly friend night. It is always helpful to be proactive in mental health wellness. I have a list of things I consider my wellness toolbox in my journal. It lists items and solo activities that make me happy when life happens. My toolbox aside, a good friend and I plan a monthly girls' weekend. She holds me accountable and only allows me to cancel if I'm physically sick -- which rarely happens. So, because she knows about my depression, she doesn't let me stay at home and become more depressed. Even if it is just going out to dinner or ordering dinner and watching a movie, she is with me one weekend a month to check in and ensure I am active and doing something I enjoy when I am well. 

Being Introverted and Coping with Depression

Being introverted can be a struggle in itself. I can be misunderstood by society and friends who are extroverts. The feeling of being misunderstood and out of place, plus other risk factors, can lead to a depressive episode. In return, being introverted can also make it challenging to begin recovery because, many times, I prefer to be alone and with minimal stimulation.

I can mask my depression due to my introverted personality. Therefore, I need to take it upon myself to have the coping skills to start my recovery. Using the three tips listed above is simple but effective. Plus, it doesn't wear me out further or cause my depression to become worse.

I would love to hear from fellow introverts about my tips or if anyone else has coping skills for their depression.