[Trigger Warning: Mention of depression]
Depression can manifest in a myriad of ways. Some people have difficulty getting out of bed in the morning, and others are high functioning to the point you can’t even tell they struggle with mental health. There are plenty of little bookish things to do to ease the burden of this illness. However, this list is not exhaustive and doesn’t claim to cure anybody’s depression entirely.
Join a Book Club
Having a social network is vital to curbing depression. A book club is a wonderful approach to this. You get to meet new people and follow up regularly. You also get to read the same book and build camaraderie. I suggest doing some research on book clubs in your area. There is bound to be one nearby, and if not, virtual ones are always a good option as well.
Organize Your Bookshelves
For a lot of people organizing a space can help with a renewed sense of clarity and
a feeling of a new beginning. Organizing your bookshelves could be a perfect way to achieve this feeling. You get to look through all your pretty books and organize how you see fit. It can give you a sense of control when everything in your life feels out of control. This idea is not for everyone, though, because some people with depression have difficulty with cleaning motivation.
Light Therapy
Light Therapy is proven to alleviate symptoms of depression, especially those associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder. The light box lamp is supposed to mimic outdoor light and increase serotonin levels while decreasing melatonin. Plus, it can double as a book light for your reading!
Crochet a Bookmark
Crocheting can be a meditative practice and a bookmark pattern is one of the easiest things to start with. If you haven’t crocheted before, there could be a learning curve, but the feeling of making something is extremely rewarding. It’s also a wonderful sensory activity where you’re touching the soft yarn and keeping your hands busy. This will elevate your reading experience! Check out a free beginner-friendly pattern here.
Buy Yourself a Gift
Sometimes, you need to get yourself a little treat to boost your mood. I’ve been eyeing this custom embosser, which can turn your library into a super personal and cute collection. You deserve to do something nice for yourself so get that book accessory you’ve been wanting!
Journal
Journaling is so liberating and healing, but don’t worry, you don’t have to write whatever comes to your head. If that’s too little direction you can try a guided journal. A guided journal can help you get your thoughts out and reflect, leaving more space in your brain for other things. There are so many to choose from. I like Get Untamed, Burn After Writing, and Wreck This Journal (there’s nothing wrong with a little therapeutic destruction).
Fiction can help you escape your current reality and when depression hits this becomes even more important. On the other hand, non-fiction self-betterment books can help you focus on your habits and self-talk. Either way, books and book-adjacent activities can support you through your darkest times.
Want more insight into navigating depression? Check out these book recommendations here.
Find any of the journals above at Bookshop.org.
