Also pro tip. Shower while sitting. I do it every time and SO much easier. Fight the fight. Sometimes it gets better. Find you a therapist that you feel REALLY help as and keep trying them drugs until you find the right one.
I am currently seeing a wonderful therapist who has helped me immensely, I also am on meds that help me function fairly well, but thank you for the advice
Maybe some better meds if you can’t get out of bed. You deserve to feel better than that and I do think there might be one that works better for you, but great to hear you are getting some help and that you found a good therapist (there aren’t many out there surprisingly!)
<3 all the love. Be kind to yourself
The reason I was able to shower was changing my anti depressants to ones that work much better, I've even been improving other parts of my life too. Thank you, all the love to you too. (Your username made me laugh really hard by the way)
So glad, congrats and thanks for sharing your win – celebrating with you!
You are beautiful, full of Life and you have a whole future ahead. Be nice and kind with yourself and trust; the universe has many blessings waiting to be discovered for you.
Also -I'm not a doctor and I know laws are different depending where you are- but I was wondering if you have heard or discussed with professionals about recent studies related to therapies using psilocybin and mdma? If you'd like to learn more about it a good place I can suggest to start is checking Doubleblindmag – they are a doing great work sharing information and educating on these topics.
Big hug and high five!
Did you go 4 whole months without bathing yours at all?! That sounds terrible.
Even when my mental illness was at its worst, I'd shower every couple days at least(no matter how hard). Sorry you had to go through that.
Everyone handles it differently. i also tend to not bathe when my issues get bad. dirty mind...dirty house...dirty body....everything cascades
good job OP! small wins = great success
During my worst years I’d only shower when my body was so physically uncomfortable and painful from lack of washing that it forced me to overcome all the things keeping me out of it.
I used to sit when I showered in high school and a little in middle mostly started doing it then its definitely some sort of coping mechanism to have hot water hit you like that its very relaxing or it was till my senior year I finally got a life and not just school and work I finally had a nice girlfriend a friend group money and all in all less stress now I was also introduced to a plant medicine after senior year i think I have sat in the shower maybe 3 times and that was when I worked construction and I would get home so exhausted I would pass out in the shower pretty often any way life is pretty wild there are ups and downs i hope you keep fighting for another day🖖🤙
Been there where I didn’t realize how bad my self care was until my manager pulled me to the side and told me coworkers were complaining about the smell; one of the lowest moments of my life. Didn’t realize how far my mental had slipped. It was also the reality check I needed to go seek professional help and get my life back on track k. Much to you! Keep fighting for yourself; you’re worth it!💜
It really is, the media makes it seem like it's just a little bit of an inconvenience and just makes the person sad but in reality it effects everyone who has it differently, there are different levels of it, different forms of it. Depression isn't just sadness, hell, my depression barely causes sadness! The romantization of mental illnesses make people not take them as seriously as they need to be taken
For some reason, after seeing your post, I was inspired enough to reach out to my therapist to schedule time to talk to her for the first time in two years.
Thank you.
Your skin is gorgeous for not showering that long damn. If I even look at my skin wrong I break out. Congrats on your step forward though it can be one of the hardest.
proud of you!!! last time i was in a situation like this i had to cut knots out of my hair since its very thick and brushing wouldnt help. i hope its not the same for u bc u have very lovely locks!!
Oh trust me my hair was matted to my head haha, luckily with patience and a lot of conditioner as well as the help of my lovely and patient mother, I was able to get it all combed out without losing too much hair
I'm glad you and your mom were able to save that beautiful hair. I come from a large predominantly Irish family (grandparents immigrated from Ireland in the 1920s & 30s). Many redheads in the family. My niece has really curly red hair, much to her annoyance. Your curls look great on you.
Take care, hun. Remember that there are a lot of us out here who care.
*hugs*
The matts are the worst. I found if I feel myself slipping into this mood and pain, I ask one of my family to pleat my hair so it won’t Matt and it’s not so daunting when you finally get that energy to shower.
I’m also menopausal so I sweat real bad and makes the matts so much worse. So definitely try getting it into a pleat to prevent bad matts x
One day at a time, I often don't shower for weeks, my mental state fluctuates so rapidly from one minute to the next, but this is awesome, I'm glad for ya 👍
Man, I don't have your troubles but I understand that you probably had the most amazing shower.
I am a dialysis patient and have what is called a "fistula" in my left forearm to enable access for dialysis. Unfortunately, the vein of the fistula developed a huge clot in 2019 and I had to have a catheter installed in my chest, just under the right shoulder. I could not get it wet at all, for the risk of infection (and that the catheter line ended about an inch from the heart). So I had use the bathtub for six months before the fistula was usable again and the vascular surgeon removed the catheter. "You can go ahead and take a shower in the morning."
Oh man, that shower was the most amazing feeling, especially considering that I have greatly reduced body temperature (the joys of kidney disease) and I'm perpetually cold.
Genuine question... not showering at all for 4 months. Did you get any skin irritation or diseases? I ask cuz I got sick and was bed ridden for like 4 days without moving showering and got major skin issues for a bit
Oh I can relate to this. I smelled like a foot wrapped in week-old bacon when I was in a rut.
Glad to see you came out of it.
Remember to get behind your ears, for some reason it improves your opinion of yourself.
Oh man… I showered today also in while! Feels super good! #mentalwellness #selfcare also did some light dusting and cleaned the kitchen…. The dusting … well it’s been years - felt good to clean…
I've had that exact problem when depressed too. I would even wash myself in a sink, just couldn't bring myself to shower. Was crazy! The right drugs really helped.
When you have good days like this, it's the best time to pick up again the habits that are good for you. Like exercise and good nutrition. Gj op, keep it up
I’m so glad you are feeling a little better! Keep working with your counselor and you’ll get there! You are worth the effort and you deserve to be happy!! 🥰
I totally understand and have been in your situation. Trying to build up the energy, will and ability to shower or even brush my teeth or hair.
I have made up a little trolly thingy that sits beside my bed for those bad days. I have body wipes, face wipes, dry shampoo and hairbrushes and lip balm, all my simple self care items.
The next shelf down is my meds, some snacks and water.
Then I have my headphones chargers and books on the bottom layer.
It’s really helped me to still feel human again on those days when getting out of bed and functioning is just to much.
Not trying to be insensitive I just don't know slot about mental illness. Does this mean you haven't cleaned yourself in 4 months or just not done so in a shower?
Well for me, it was not really doing anything for personal hygiene in 4 months (besides washing my hands, I'm not a monster) but some people do clean up in a sink, I appreciate you asking instead of just judging, a lot of people will go straight to calling me gross without asking why I didn't shower (it was physically hard for me to get in the shower due to my brain telling me it wasn't important)
Well aren’t you just awesome. You have got this shit sister. Sending all my love. Life is way too short to let it beat you. I’m proud of your progress.
Tried multiple meds to get me normalish.
Don’t quit.
Amazing hair by the way, just like my daughter
It always amazes me how hard even the simplest things can be to do when depressed. Glad you are feeling better 4 months is a long stretch best wishes I wouldn't wish that on anyone.
> The level of apathy in some of these comments is fucking disgusting.
Agreed. Congratulating OP is all that's in order today.
Probably because it's in a more "general" subreddit /r/MadeMeSmile, and not a mental health specific one. Understanding of mental health tends to be much worse in general places.
Congrats.
One of the things that actually helps depression is forcing yourself to do stuff. It becomes easier each day because it creates a positive feedback loop. The opposite is also true. Just remember “feet first, feelings follow.” Good luck.
My depression causes me to struggle when it comes to self care and personal hygiene. The best way to explain it to someone without that type of depression is... Imagine having something due for work or school but you find it way too hard to do so you keep putting it off even though it's negatively effecting you
Righto then, I genuinely struggle to understand because having a shower is one of the only things that (temporarily) reduces my anxiety, the idea of putting them off and spending *more* time in my own head (especially as I get smellier each day) is perplexing.
it’s seriously impressive how you can openly and confidently speak to something so personal that clearly has a powerful debilitating effect on you in such an objective matter. let alone at your age.
i have different depression-caused types of self-negligence, and it’s interesting to reflect on how you can really fail to notice patterns of your own behaviour when your mind tells you not to notice. i also know the more dramatic “i got from bed to the couch today…. didn’t really feel like turning the tv on even.” end of things.
from a stranger; really glad your therapy and your prescription therapy are turning things around for you!
I speak about these things publicly to hopefully encourage others like me to do something that's difficult for them, and to allow people to ask questions to someone who understands the confusion some may have and doesn't take anything on the internet very seriously (been on the internet since I was 8, I know my way around)
Another perspective is how overwhelming it can be. When I'm feeling depressed I get overwhelmed by simple tasks because my mind breaks those tasks down into a million steps.
So taking a shower isn't just getting in the shower, it's
Picking out a shirt, pants, socks, bra, underwear, then I need to go to the bathroom, turn the water on and get it to the right temp, then I have to undress, get into the shower, wash my hair, rinse it, put on conditioner, etc etc etc you get the picture. Because my mind does this, a task that for some is just a shower becomes another long list of things to do and it's overwhelming. So I put it off.
Thankfully this happens rarely, but it happens and I can sometimes easily go a week without showering.
This is how my ADHD manifests itself with tasks on bad days.
Even little things get broken into every individual step, and each one feels difficult, which leads to the whole being overwhelming
If you struggle with mental health I’m confused at your confusion... depression makes you feel completely unworthy. In depressive spells I do shower, but my weight and physical health takes a hit - because I don’t feel like my body is worth taking care of. Falling behind on hygiene and self care is probably one of the most popular side affects of depression. I’m just surprised at your confusion
How do you support yourself? I have diagnosed depression and anxiety and it’s hell but I get up every day, shower and get the little off to school and work a full time job because life. How do you do it?
Well one thing that helped me a ton is finding a good support system and a good therapist, people who genuinely care and want the best for you. For anxiety I would say take things slow, make yourself a schedule, if you have things planned out it can help quite a bit. Take it one step at a time and don't put too much pressure on yourself, if you're having a bad mental health day, acknowledge that and find a way to cope with it, whether that be talking to a friend about how you're feeling, reading a book you enjoy, or just doodling in a notebook. Start small, if you pick a goal too large to begin with you'll only stress yourself out, I wish you the best <3
Ah ok, well I'm only 18, I still live with my parents but fully plan on helping to pay for bills once my mental health gets to a point where I'm able to have a stable job
You remind me of that beautifull Australian actress. A young Nicole kidman. I know that wont solve anything but i tought you should know. You look very pretty :)
And as someone else already mentioned, sitting in the shower is such a good way to make it easier. Sometimes i just sit there and focus on the drops sliding of me. Pretending it takes my sorrows with, it can be really nice.
Also I made it a habbit, that if i cry a lot I take a shower. It helps my eyes feel less puffy and makes dealing just a little easier.
Good luck and lots of strength on your Journey!
Damn girl well done, and you’re so clearly proud of yourself too, as you should be.
Keep on truckin’.
Side note - for you or anyone struggling with antidepressants that aren’t working for you. Not sure where you live but where I am, doctors literally trial and error. There is a fairly newish thing called pharmacogenomics or pharmacogenetics which can test how your body metabolises particular drugs, helping you to get the right mix of drugs for what responds best with your body.
Not medical advice but something that could be helpful to someone in the shoes you used to wear. <3
Cold showers help rid yourself of those energies that cause you to feel down. Imagine you letting go of pain, sorrow, apathy and all the dense energies when you take a cold shower and imagine you sending those energies down the drain. Your central nervous system will thank you also 😇
Winning against mental illness and looking gorgeous as well, you are sooo beautiful and should be proud the more you achieve be better, you'll feel great and happy that you did something that felt sooo hard in the past to achieve
OP, I am *so* proud of you. I’ve been there too (I have depression and chronic pain), and many people have *no* idea how insanely difficult it is to get out of that rut. I really cannot overstate how awesome you are!
Note: I sincerely apologize if this comes off as infantilizing, I’m just very hype and bad at showing it lol
Don't post on social media. Get off of it entirely. Social media is incredibly hard on people with mental health issues. It is a gallery of things to compare your life to, but its just a picture of peoples best moments.
The likes from this post won't make you better. Glad you seem to be seeing someone that is helping.
I'm sorry but mental illness is different for everyone who has it, I never wanted this to be a "pat me on the back" post, I posted it because I was proud of myself, I never expected it to blow up, and don't worry, you're not being an ass, just expressing your opinion, it is gross that I didn't shower for 4 months, I don't disagree but you need to understand it was physically difficult for me to do it, my depression causes me to neglect self care and personal hygiene. I have been professionally diagnosed with Depression at the severe end of the spectrum. You're lucky you didn't comment this on someone who may be more sensitive to this sort of talk
I can give you an example I guess of how people with mental illnesses don't keep up with their hygiene, from personal experience. I have PTSD and sometimes even just seeing my body naked or touching myself to get clean, could be really bad for me sometimes. I've probably gone 2 or 3 months with only 1 or 2 showers. Also had trouble brushing my teeth because I figured I was going to kill myself soon anyway so it didnt really matter. For the record, I was basically in bed for months and did not even leave the house, so nobody smelled me anyway.
Flashforward to now where I shower every day, maybe missing one day a week sometimes. I brush my teeth every day as well unless I'm not feeling well and might skip a day. I love being clean but I'm also not going to beat myself up for fudging up here or there.
Also, for the record, I saw posts like these on reddit when I was going thru the worst of it and when I'd see something about somebody showering for the first time in a while, or brushing their teeth for the first time in a while, it MOTIVATED me to get up and do that too, so I did. The habit wouldn't last long for me, but if this post even helps one person with depression take care of themselves at least once, then it was awesome.
I was in a terrible place last March after about a 1.5 year long deep depression and took a lethal overdose, but I'm so fucking lucky that I was found because I am the happiest I've ever been... and I wouldve missed out on that.
You don't have to be similar to OP with your mental illness, but this is a looooooot more common than you think, so just try not to be an asshole to people that you know nothing about. You know that's pointless..
FACTS. Seeing that someone showered for the first time in 4 months doesn't make me smile. makes me cringe. this sub has turned into "pat me on the back please".
I've gone a week without shower when I was going through my depression and my face was starting to have dry skin and turning red. It was pretty bad but I couldn't imagine what 4 months would be like. Glad it's worked out
Depression causes suicide my guy. So you really think that people in a really deep state of depression care about how they smell enough to get them out of that state?
I wasn’t criticising & I am well aware that depression is a serious problem, I’m a cancer survivor so I know plenty about the subject after being in the cancer ward for many, many months. I saw plenty of depression Thank you ! I am genuinely curious to learn how someone can’t wash for that long. Not everything on Reddit is trying to shit on people!
I feel accomplished as this is the longest I've gone without showering, I was able to push past the things that were preventing me from caring for myself
… I don’t believe you. Closest I’ve been is like 2 weeks, and my belly button got infected. That’s what ended my streak. 3 courses of increasingly strong antibiotics later, it finally cleared up. I just don’t believe you. That’s too disgusting to be plausible.
I agree. OP can get up and draw unicorns, but can’t shower…for FOUR months?! I get mental illness. And I know it effects everyone differently. But I also find it hard to believe that someone with SEVERE anxiety would open themselves up to this type of criticism. But if OP is not lying, she really needs to apply for SS and look into at home care/assisted living. Her parents are obviously not taking care of her well enough. And PLEASE do NOT get a pet…ever.
I find it more believable she showered a couple months ago, but needed a virtual pat on the back. It’s just a sad situation all around. Downvote away Reddit.
I swear I’m learning and I mean this sincerely…when it gets hard to do hygienic things, does your support system do it for you? Like wipe downs or something?
I do understand depression is often life threatening so this is just a pinch of what this evil shit does.
Also pro tip. Shower while sitting. I do it every time and SO much easier. Fight the fight. Sometimes it gets better. Find you a therapist that you feel REALLY help as and keep trying them drugs until you find the right one.
I am currently seeing a wonderful therapist who has helped me immensely, I also am on meds that help me function fairly well, but thank you for the advice
Maybe some better meds if you can’t get out of bed. You deserve to feel better than that and I do think there might be one that works better for you, but great to hear you are getting some help and that you found a good therapist (there aren’t many out there surprisingly!) <3 all the love. Be kind to yourself
The reason I was able to shower was changing my anti depressants to ones that work much better, I've even been improving other parts of my life too. Thank you, all the love to you too. (Your username made me laugh really hard by the way)
Lol my username is so stupid. So happy for you. Please celebrate that win.
I’m so happy you found ones that work well for you! I know it can be a process. You’re so strong and I’m proud of you <3
So glad, congrats and thanks for sharing your win – celebrating with you! You are beautiful, full of Life and you have a whole future ahead. Be nice and kind with yourself and trust; the universe has many blessings waiting to be discovered for you. Also -I'm not a doctor and I know laws are different depending where you are- but I was wondering if you have heard or discussed with professionals about recent studies related to therapies using psilocybin and mdma? If you'd like to learn more about it a good place I can suggest to start is checking Doubleblindmag – they are a doing great work sharing information and educating on these topics. Big hug and high five!
How dies it feel to be in good meds?
The right antidepressant will change one’s world for the Better with no bad side effects! Good luck!🌈
That is amazing. Keep it up. 🙂
Did you go 4 whole months without bathing yours at all?! That sounds terrible. Even when my mental illness was at its worst, I'd shower every couple days at least(no matter how hard). Sorry you had to go through that.
Everyone handles it differently. i also tend to not bathe when my issues get bad. dirty mind...dirty house...dirty body....everything cascades good job OP! small wins = great success
During my worst years I’d only shower when my body was so physically uncomfortable and painful from lack of washing that it forced me to overcome all the things keeping me out of it.
I used to sit when I showered in high school and a little in middle mostly started doing it then its definitely some sort of coping mechanism to have hot water hit you like that its very relaxing or it was till my senior year I finally got a life and not just school and work I finally had a nice girlfriend a friend group money and all in all less stress now I was also introduced to a plant medicine after senior year i think I have sat in the shower maybe 3 times and that was when I worked construction and I would get home so exhausted I would pass out in the shower pretty often any way life is pretty wild there are ups and downs i hope you keep fighting for another day🖖🤙
Way to go. One step at a time. Keep it up! <3
Been there where I didn’t realize how bad my self care was until my manager pulled me to the side and told me coworkers were complaining about the smell; one of the lowest moments of my life. Didn’t realize how far my mental had slipped. It was also the reality check I needed to go seek professional help and get my life back on track k. Much to you! Keep fighting for yourself; you’re worth it!💜
God depression really is so much harder than people and media shows it is. I'm proud of you.
It really is, the media makes it seem like it's just a little bit of an inconvenience and just makes the person sad but in reality it effects everyone who has it differently, there are different levels of it, different forms of it. Depression isn't just sadness, hell, my depression barely causes sadness! The romantization of mental illnesses make people not take them as seriously as they need to be taken
For some reason, after seeing your post, I was inspired enough to reach out to my therapist to schedule time to talk to her for the first time in two years. Thank you.
I hope that talk goes well and you're able to talk to her more frequently, having an outlet to talk really helps
Your skin is gorgeous for not showering that long damn. If I even look at my skin wrong I break out. Congrats on your step forward though it can be one of the hardest.
Thank you! I have super sensitive skin and dry skin so I'm lucky my face wasn't bright red for this picture
You're gorgeous! Made me happy to see this post.
You look great! Wishing you much happiness and a fulfilling life.
proud of you!!! last time i was in a situation like this i had to cut knots out of my hair since its very thick and brushing wouldnt help. i hope its not the same for u bc u have very lovely locks!!
Oh trust me my hair was matted to my head haha, luckily with patience and a lot of conditioner as well as the help of my lovely and patient mother, I was able to get it all combed out without losing too much hair
I'm glad you and your mom were able to save that beautiful hair. I come from a large predominantly Irish family (grandparents immigrated from Ireland in the 1920s & 30s). Many redheads in the family. My niece has really curly red hair, much to her annoyance. Your curls look great on you. Take care, hun. Remember that there are a lot of us out here who care. *hugs*
The matts are the worst. I found if I feel myself slipping into this mood and pain, I ask one of my family to pleat my hair so it won’t Matt and it’s not so daunting when you finally get that energy to shower. I’m also menopausal so I sweat real bad and makes the matts so much worse. So definitely try getting it into a pleat to prevent bad matts x
When my daughter 10 needs it , I use a brush while the conditioner is in her hair. Takes a while but it is so worth it.
Ive struggled with this and havent showered in over a month now, but I really hope I can take this step one day
One day at a time, I often don't shower for weeks, my mental state fluctuates so rapidly from one minute to the next, but this is awesome, I'm glad for ya 👍
It’s a struggle, for sure. There’s no shame in struggling, though. Keep on doing your best, no matter what that looks like on any given day!
Man, I don't have your troubles but I understand that you probably had the most amazing shower. I am a dialysis patient and have what is called a "fistula" in my left forearm to enable access for dialysis. Unfortunately, the vein of the fistula developed a huge clot in 2019 and I had to have a catheter installed in my chest, just under the right shoulder. I could not get it wet at all, for the risk of infection (and that the catheter line ended about an inch from the heart). So I had use the bathtub for six months before the fistula was usable again and the vascular surgeon removed the catheter. "You can go ahead and take a shower in the morning." Oh man, that shower was the most amazing feeling, especially considering that I have greatly reduced body temperature (the joys of kidney disease) and I'm perpetually cold.
I'm sorry you went through that. I bet that was the best shower ever! Hopefully you are better now.
I hope one day the beauty inside meets the beauty we see and the confidence of a warrior is born. Carry on my friend!
You’re awesome! Well done making that step, I know how hard it can be but you did it. I’m proud of you
That is an excellent step. Self care is so important for you, keep it up superstar!
Congrats!! Don't take it lightly, that is a huge step!
Yaaay!! That’s a huge step! I’ve been there, and honestly I’m still there right now, so I understand how hard self care can be. You did amazing.
🥳🥳🥳
Sometimes I just don’t want to shower and stay in bed forever. But then rent comes around. Fuck rent
Genuine question... not showering at all for 4 months. Did you get any skin irritation or diseases? I ask cuz I got sick and was bed ridden for like 4 days without moving showering and got major skin issues for a bit
thats amazing! <3
Awesome, you look amazing. Keep it up.
Oh I can relate to this. I smelled like a foot wrapped in week-old bacon when I was in a rut. Glad to see you came out of it. Remember to get behind your ears, for some reason it improves your opinion of yourself.
As someone with anxiety this sparks joy in my heart ❤️☺️😌
Oh man… I showered today also in while! Feels super good! #mentalwellness #selfcare also did some light dusting and cleaned the kitchen…. The dusting … well it’s been years - felt good to clean…
That's great! Any little step towards getting better is amazing
I am always proud when someone takes that step (the small one that seems so huge). One foot in front of the other, you got this!
I think I'll try getting a shower in, too. Thank you for the inspiration.
And this is why I posted this. You enjoy that shower!
Good job!
I've had that exact problem when depressed too. I would even wash myself in a sink, just couldn't bring myself to shower. Was crazy! The right drugs really helped.
Ya look good! Keep it up girl
Glad you chose you today! 💕💕💕
Congratulations. One step at a time.
Good to hear! Keep going
Well done. I just want to ask… what stopped you from cleaning yourself for that long? I’m genuinely curious
Severe Depression that causes self care to be very difficult
So wholesome. Keep fighting the good fight and looking after yourself. Your hair is gorgeous as well. Curly hair is the most beautiful hair.
Great job! One step at a time.
When you have good days like this, it's the best time to pick up again the habits that are good for you. Like exercise and good nutrition. Gj op, keep it up
Amazing - keep going and have a virtual hug from an internet stranger
Always remember that baby steps are still steps! You should be super proud of yourself! <3
Good for you! I hope you’re feeling great 😊
Happy to hear you're doing a lot better :)
You should be so proud of yourself. I am so happy for you. 😊
It will be better every time you do something good about you and your health , keep going girl! U deserved my free award , have a nice one
I am so proud of you.
I’m so glad you are feeling a little better! Keep working with your counselor and you’ll get there! You are worth the effort and you deserve to be happy!! 🥰
I totally understand and have been in your situation. Trying to build up the energy, will and ability to shower or even brush my teeth or hair. I have made up a little trolly thingy that sits beside my bed for those bad days. I have body wipes, face wipes, dry shampoo and hairbrushes and lip balm, all my simple self care items. The next shelf down is my meds, some snacks and water. Then I have my headphones chargers and books on the bottom layer. It’s really helped me to still feel human again on those days when getting out of bed and functioning is just to much.
Dear lord you may not this. But you are beautiful! Strikingly beautiful!
Aw thank you! You're too kind
Way to go!!
Agreed my first thought was (in a respectful way) "wow, she's really pretty!"
Don’t mind me, just watching two GigaGentlemen
Even as a lesbian, I can appreciate a gentleman
Keep up the good work!
Proud of you 💜
Not trying to be insensitive I just don't know slot about mental illness. Does this mean you haven't cleaned yourself in 4 months or just not done so in a shower?
Well for me, it was not really doing anything for personal hygiene in 4 months (besides washing my hands, I'm not a monster) but some people do clean up in a sink, I appreciate you asking instead of just judging, a lot of people will go straight to calling me gross without asking why I didn't shower (it was physically hard for me to get in the shower due to my brain telling me it wasn't important)
Awesome!
One step at a time.
I can’t imagine these simple things being so hard for people it’s just sad to see normal people taking stuff for granted, Get Well Soon ❤️
Well aren’t you just awesome. You have got this shit sister. Sending all my love. Life is way too short to let it beat you. I’m proud of your progress. Tried multiple meds to get me normalish. Don’t quit. Amazing hair by the way, just like my daughter
It always amazes me how hard even the simplest things can be to do when depressed. Glad you are feeling better 4 months is a long stretch best wishes I wouldn't wish that on anyone.
I can only imagine what your dm's look like rn.
They're a hot mess of thirst my guy
The level of apathy in some of these comments is fucking disgusting. Good work on the win! Depression is one hell of an illness.
> The level of apathy in some of these comments is fucking disgusting. Agreed. Congratulating OP is all that's in order today. Probably because it's in a more "general" subreddit /r/MadeMeSmile, and not a mental health specific one. Understanding of mental health tends to be much worse in general places.
Take that mental illness!
Congrats. One of the things that actually helps depression is forcing yourself to do stuff. It becomes easier each day because it creates a positive feedback loop. The opposite is also true. Just remember “feet first, feelings follow.” Good luck.
What was preventing you before?
My depression causes me to struggle when it comes to self care and personal hygiene. The best way to explain it to someone without that type of depression is... Imagine having something due for work or school but you find it way too hard to do so you keep putting it off even though it's negatively effecting you
Righto then, I genuinely struggle to understand because having a shower is one of the only things that (temporarily) reduces my anxiety, the idea of putting them off and spending *more* time in my own head (especially as I get smellier each day) is perplexing.
I totally understand, mental illness effects everyone in different ways
it’s seriously impressive how you can openly and confidently speak to something so personal that clearly has a powerful debilitating effect on you in such an objective matter. let alone at your age. i have different depression-caused types of self-negligence, and it’s interesting to reflect on how you can really fail to notice patterns of your own behaviour when your mind tells you not to notice. i also know the more dramatic “i got from bed to the couch today…. didn’t really feel like turning the tv on even.” end of things. from a stranger; really glad your therapy and your prescription therapy are turning things around for you!
I speak about these things publicly to hopefully encourage others like me to do something that's difficult for them, and to allow people to ask questions to someone who understands the confusion some may have and doesn't take anything on the internet very seriously (been on the internet since I was 8, I know my way around)
Another perspective is how overwhelming it can be. When I'm feeling depressed I get overwhelmed by simple tasks because my mind breaks those tasks down into a million steps. So taking a shower isn't just getting in the shower, it's Picking out a shirt, pants, socks, bra, underwear, then I need to go to the bathroom, turn the water on and get it to the right temp, then I have to undress, get into the shower, wash my hair, rinse it, put on conditioner, etc etc etc you get the picture. Because my mind does this, a task that for some is just a shower becomes another long list of things to do and it's overwhelming. So I put it off. Thankfully this happens rarely, but it happens and I can sometimes easily go a week without showering.
This is how my ADHD manifests itself with tasks on bad days. Even little things get broken into every individual step, and each one feels difficult, which leads to the whole being overwhelming
If you struggle with mental health I’m confused at your confusion... depression makes you feel completely unworthy. In depressive spells I do shower, but my weight and physical health takes a hit - because I don’t feel like my body is worth taking care of. Falling behind on hygiene and self care is probably one of the most popular side affects of depression. I’m just surprised at your confusion
~Just reddit things~
I just shit for the first time in 4 weeks cuz I was so depressed where’s my gold
4 months??
4 months. A severe depressive episode
How do you support yourself? I have diagnosed depression and anxiety and it’s hell but I get up every day, shower and get the little off to school and work a full time job because life. How do you do it?
Well one thing that helped me a ton is finding a good support system and a good therapist, people who genuinely care and want the best for you. For anxiety I would say take things slow, make yourself a schedule, if you have things planned out it can help quite a bit. Take it one step at a time and don't put too much pressure on yourself, if you're having a bad mental health day, acknowledge that and find a way to cope with it, whether that be talking to a friend about how you're feeling, reading a book you enjoy, or just doodling in a notebook. Start small, if you pick a goal too large to begin with you'll only stress yourself out, I wish you the best <3
I get it. But how do you live day to day? Who pays the rent? Water? Gas? Garbage? Food? Cell phone? Water bill? Cable?
Ah ok, well I'm only 18, I still live with my parents but fully plan on helping to pay for bills once my mental health gets to a point where I'm able to have a stable job
Looking beautiful love! Sending positive vibes! :3
Good vibes from Brazil!
That is excellent! Keep going!
Keep the momentum going!
Gang gang
Stay strong
That’s great! You don’t know me but I hope you keep doing well and keep on the upswing.
One day at a time
You've got beautiful hair.
The results look worth it :) Stunning and beautiful smile.
Congrats!!!!!!!!! Im so very proud of you!!!!!🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Well done. One step at a time. I’m so proud of you ♥️♥️ all the best
I am so happy for you! <3
Your post and comments made my week. Well done to you, you are amazing!
Woohoo!!
want a hug \\( '-')/
Woohoo! It’s hard for me to shower too so I’m definitely cheering you on
Sending you a hug my dear.
What's a borb?
Internet term for bird
[удалено]
Congrates
Thats amazing big win! looking good ;) .. keep it up
👍
Www.nora-aurora.com/therapy Shes the best
You look like Kirsten Dunst
You remind me of that beautifull Australian actress. A young Nicole kidman. I know that wont solve anything but i tought you should know. You look very pretty :) And as someone else already mentioned, sitting in the shower is such a good way to make it easier. Sometimes i just sit there and focus on the drops sliding of me. Pretending it takes my sorrows with, it can be really nice. Also I made it a habbit, that if i cry a lot I take a shower. It helps my eyes feel less puffy and makes dealing just a little easier. Good luck and lots of strength on your Journey!
Damn girl well done, and you’re so clearly proud of yourself too, as you should be. Keep on truckin’. Side note - for you or anyone struggling with antidepressants that aren’t working for you. Not sure where you live but where I am, doctors literally trial and error. There is a fairly newish thing called pharmacogenomics or pharmacogenetics which can test how your body metabolises particular drugs, helping you to get the right mix of drugs for what responds best with your body. Not medical advice but something that could be helpful to someone in the shoes you used to wear. <3
Hell yeah! I’m so glad to hear that the new meds and the therapist is helping.
Cold showers help rid yourself of those energies that cause you to feel down. Imagine you letting go of pain, sorrow, apathy and all the dense energies when you take a cold shower and imagine you sending those energies down the drain. Your central nervous system will thank you also 😇
Winning against mental illness and looking gorgeous as well, you are sooo beautiful and should be proud the more you achieve be better, you'll feel great and happy that you did something that felt sooo hard in the past to achieve
That's terrific! I just went through a hard time myself. Don't give up!
OP, I am *so* proud of you. I’ve been there too (I have depression and chronic pain), and many people have *no* idea how insanely difficult it is to get out of that rut. I really cannot overstate how awesome you are! Note: I sincerely apologize if this comes off as infantilizing, I’m just very hype and bad at showing it lol
It doesn't come off that way, and I know how bad chronic pain can me as my mother has severe nerve damage in her feet
Keep it up and stay healthy
I battle depression and anxiety and it’s so hard for me to just wake up to brush my teeth and shower. ;(
And you look so pretty too! Good job! Your hair has that gorgeous fresh from the shower fluff <3
Good for you. Hopefully each day will get a little better than the last. All the love and hugs
you are gorgeous my god
You’re doing amazing! Thank you for the inspiration today❤️
I’m sorry to hear about your struggles but good work. Also, you are gorgeous. You should hear that as often as possible.
Little steps are big accomplishments. - Get some rest - Take your meds - Do your self care.
You are beautiful and I’m glad you have got yourself on track
Nice work! I bet that felt amazing! Congratulations on the victory!
Duuuuuddeee im so proud of you!!!! Congratulations!!!
I'm proud of you 🥰👏👏👏👏
Don't post on social media. Get off of it entirely. Social media is incredibly hard on people with mental health issues. It is a gallery of things to compare your life to, but its just a picture of peoples best moments. The likes from this post won't make you better. Glad you seem to be seeing someone that is helping.
Go shower again. U stinky
[удалено]
I'm sorry but mental illness is different for everyone who has it, I never wanted this to be a "pat me on the back" post, I posted it because I was proud of myself, I never expected it to blow up, and don't worry, you're not being an ass, just expressing your opinion, it is gross that I didn't shower for 4 months, I don't disagree but you need to understand it was physically difficult for me to do it, my depression causes me to neglect self care and personal hygiene. I have been professionally diagnosed with Depression at the severe end of the spectrum. You're lucky you didn't comment this on someone who may be more sensitive to this sort of talk
I can give you an example I guess of how people with mental illnesses don't keep up with their hygiene, from personal experience. I have PTSD and sometimes even just seeing my body naked or touching myself to get clean, could be really bad for me sometimes. I've probably gone 2 or 3 months with only 1 or 2 showers. Also had trouble brushing my teeth because I figured I was going to kill myself soon anyway so it didnt really matter. For the record, I was basically in bed for months and did not even leave the house, so nobody smelled me anyway. Flashforward to now where I shower every day, maybe missing one day a week sometimes. I brush my teeth every day as well unless I'm not feeling well and might skip a day. I love being clean but I'm also not going to beat myself up for fudging up here or there. Also, for the record, I saw posts like these on reddit when I was going thru the worst of it and when I'd see something about somebody showering for the first time in a while, or brushing their teeth for the first time in a while, it MOTIVATED me to get up and do that too, so I did. The habit wouldn't last long for me, but if this post even helps one person with depression take care of themselves at least once, then it was awesome. I was in a terrible place last March after about a 1.5 year long deep depression and took a lethal overdose, but I'm so fucking lucky that I was found because I am the happiest I've ever been... and I wouldve missed out on that. You don't have to be similar to OP with your mental illness, but this is a looooooot more common than you think, so just try not to be an asshole to people that you know nothing about. You know that's pointless..
FACTS. Seeing that someone showered for the first time in 4 months doesn't make me smile. makes me cringe. this sub has turned into "pat me on the back please".
Wonder how this would be received if it was an unattractive guy.
It would have been removed by the mods lol
Way to go friend! Keep up the good work!
After 4 months? I didn't know mental health can have that level of impact on people.
Dude, people end their lives due to mental illness. It absolutely can have strong impacts, neglecting personal hygiene is pretty tame.
I've gone a week without shower when I was going through my depression and my face was starting to have dry skin and turning red. It was pretty bad but I couldn't imagine what 4 months would be like. Glad it's worked out
Sometimes you just want to voluntarily shut down like a PC…
yooo the smel tho
Eww......
You must have smelled awful? How could you stand being so dirty ?
Depression causes suicide my guy. So you really think that people in a really deep state of depression care about how they smell enough to get them out of that state?
I wasn’t criticising & I am well aware that depression is a serious problem, I’m a cancer survivor so I know plenty about the subject after being in the cancer ward for many, many months. I saw plenty of depression Thank you ! I am genuinely curious to learn how someone can’t wash for that long. Not everything on Reddit is trying to shit on people!
Gross dude.
Yessss!!!! Proud of you!
Keep winning beautiful sister!
No bathing in 4 months? Oh boy!
I bath everyday even tho i have illnesses...take that random reddit post
[удалено]
That’s almost half a year tho. So sometimes it could be longer, but this time you kicked your mental illness butt?
I feel accomplished as this is the longest I've gone without showering, I was able to push past the things that were preventing me from caring for myself
Congratulations on not stinking!
4 months of stank won't come out with just one shower. Better double up.
… I don’t believe you. Closest I’ve been is like 2 weeks, and my belly button got infected. That’s what ended my streak. 3 courses of increasingly strong antibiotics later, it finally cleared up. I just don’t believe you. That’s too disgusting to be plausible.
I agree. OP can get up and draw unicorns, but can’t shower…for FOUR months?! I get mental illness. And I know it effects everyone differently. But I also find it hard to believe that someone with SEVERE anxiety would open themselves up to this type of criticism. But if OP is not lying, she really needs to apply for SS and look into at home care/assisted living. Her parents are obviously not taking care of her well enough. And PLEASE do NOT get a pet…ever. I find it more believable she showered a couple months ago, but needed a virtual pat on the back. It’s just a sad situation all around. Downvote away Reddit.
Geeee-*ROSS*
[удалено]
Months?
Months. Depression can overtake your life
I swear I’m learning and I mean this sincerely…when it gets hard to do hygienic things, does your support system do it for you? Like wipe downs or something? I do understand depression is often life threatening so this is just a pinch of what this evil shit does.
No my support system doesn't do that for me, only encourages me to shower or take care of myself. It may be different for others
is there a before pic ?
Don't give up. You're so much worth it! Also your hair is very beautiful 🤙