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Weekly Prompt #40: How does your depression affect your ability to care about and take care of others?
by ASilentObserver
Last post
 September 30th
...See more Hello all, I hope you are all being easy on yourself this week. A few weeks ago we discussed: How has depression changed your perspective on life? [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/DepressionSupportSessionsSummaries_535/WeeklyPrompt39Howhasdepressionchangedyourperspectiveonlife_333289/]Thank you to all who participated and shared their thoughts and questions for discussion. They were thought-provoking questions and thoughts. I hope you all did too. If you didn't share yours, please share them here [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/DepressionSupportSessionsSummaries_535/WeeklyPrompt39Howhasdepressionchangedyourperspectiveonlife_333289/] and I look forward to reading and discussing them with you This week's prompt: How does your depression affect your ability to care about and take care of others? Depression can affect a person's ability to care about and take care of others. How it affect yours? Let's get started and share your thoughts with us. I look forward to hearing all your thoughts and ideas.  Join us in the 24/7 Depression Support Group Chat [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]
Weekly Prompt #39: How has depression changed your perspective on life?
by ASilentObserver
Last post
 September 16th
...See more Hello all, I hope you are all being easy on yourself this week. A couple of weeks ago we discussed:  [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/General_2427/WeeklyPrompt37Whatchallengesareyoufacingthatyouneedhelpwith_329560/]Imagine a perfect day where you feel neither lonely nor depressed. Describe what that day would look like. [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/General_2427/WeeklyPrompt38ImagineaperfectdaywhereyoufeelneitherlonelynordepressedDescribewhatthatdaywouldlooklike_330702/] Thank you to all who participated and shared their thoughts and questions for discussion. They were thought-provoking questions and thoughts. I hope you all did too. If you didn't share yours, please share them here and I look forward to reading and discussing them with you [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/General_2427/WeeklyPrompt38ImagineaperfectdaywhereyoufeelneitherlonelynordepressedDescribewhatthatdaywouldlooklike_330702/] This week's prompt: How has depression changed your perspective on life? Let's get started and share your thoughts with us. I look forward to hearing all your thoughts and ideas.    Note: I invite all to help me with creating these weekly prompt discussions so that we all can come together and discuss something related to depression every week. If you any interested in helping me out, please share your interest through this form and  I will reach out to you to guide and support you in creating the next discussion.  [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefjDBwy85YFxWpfrqrdXbdMORBC-pvJA4xhd10R9lMq66fIw/viewform] Join us in the 24/7 Depression Support Group Chat [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]
Your Poem...
by EmmaE
Last post
 July 17th
...See more Hi everyone, I came across this poem prompt and thought I'd share it here if anyone would like to try! ------------------------- My Poem (Title) My name is (name). Today I feel like a/an (adjective) (noun) (verb)ing in the (noun). Sometimes I am a/an (noun) Sometimes I am a/an (noun) But always I am (adjective). I ask the world, "(question)?" And the answer is a/an (repeat your words from line 2). ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
January 2024 Events - Welcoming 2024
by EmmaE
Last post
 January 12th
...See more Hi DS, Happy New Year! This month, we will be celebrating Welcoming 2024 throughout the month! ------------------------- We have lots of different forum posts, discussions, icebreakers, and group support discussions happening in our depression support room [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]! Everything will be linked or added to this master post for easy access <3 Forum posts: * Reflection on 2023 [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/General_2427/Reflectionon2023_319824/] * Goals for 2024 [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/General_2427/Goalsfor2024_319825/] ------------------------- How do you feel about it being a new year? If you did, how did you celebrate new years? ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
December 2023 Events - The Holidays
by EmmaE
Last post
 December 21st, 2023
...See more Hi Depression Support! Although the holidays can be a fun time of the year filled with happiness, celebrations and quality time, it can also be a time filled with loneliness, reflection, and depression for many people. All of these feelings towards the holidays are totally normal and okay - we all have our own experiences with this time of year and it's important to recognize and validate all of our feelings. ------------------------- Feel free to participate in some of our holiday activities: * Forum posts: * Coping with Depression and The Holidays [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/General_2427/CopingwithDepressionandTheHolidays_293464/] * Describe the holidays in one word [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/Icebreakers_211/ifyoucoulddescribetheholidaysinonewordwhatwoulditbe_266661/] * Reflection on 2023 [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/General_2427/Reflectionon2023_319824/] * Goals for 2024 [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/General_2427/Goalsfor2024_319825/] ------------------------- How are you feeling with the holidays and new year coming up? If you have one or would like to share, what is a happy/funny memory from the holidays you'll never forget?  Wishing you all a happy holidays and happy new year! I'm hoping 2024 brings great things for each and every one of you. Depression support is here for you <3 ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
November 2023 Events - World Kindness Day
by EmmaE
Last post
 November 18th, 2023
...See more Hi Depression Support! This month, we will be celebrating World Kindness Day on November 13! ------------------------- We have lots of different forum posts, discussions, icebreakers, and group support discussions happening in our depression support room [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]! Everything will be linked or added to this master post for easy access <3 Forum posts: * The Power of Expressing Kindness [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/SpecialEvents_2180/ThePowerofExpressingKindness_317492/] * Discussion Schedule:  [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php] * What does kindness mean to you? What is a kind act you remember? (This can be something someone has done for you, something you've done for others, something you've seen someone else do, etc)  ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
The Power of Expressing Kindness
by HealingTalk
Last post
 November 15th, 2023
...See more ------------------------- This post is part of the “World Kindness Day” Event by the Depression Support Community. See the Event Masterpost by clicking HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/SpecialEvents_2180/November2023EventsWorldKindnessDay_317223/?post=3406372] ------------------------- The Power of Expressing Kindness Introduction In our daily interactions, we often underestimate the impact of being kind, even by just saying something nice to others. Beyond simply showcasing kindness and politeness, this simple act has significant benefits for both our own well-being and society as a whole. Scientific evidence shows that expressing kind words can lead to positive emotional states and even elicit a chemical response in our brains, resulting in feelings of pleasure and happiness. We will explore the various ways in which saying something nice can positively influence our well-being and create a ripple effect of kindness in our communities. Being Kind elicits Positive Emotions When we cultivate the habit of being kind to others, we open ourselves to experiencing positive emotions such as compassion, empathy, and gratitude. These emotions, backed by research, have been proven to enhance our overall well-being and life satisfaction. By extending our kindness through words, we contribute not only to the happiness of others but also to our own mental health. Compassion: Understanding and Alleviating Suffering Compassion allows us to understand and empathize with the suffering of others. By demonstrating compassion through kind words, we not only help alleviate their pain but also foster a sense of connection and purpose within ourselves. Showing compassion creates a deep bond and understanding that strengthens our relationships and builds a greater sense of community. Empathy: Putting Ourselves in Others' Shoes Empathy enables us to relate to others' emotions and experiences. When we take the time to understand someone's situation and feelings, we can deliver kind words that are specifically tailored to their needs. This act of empathy conveys that we genuinely care and creates a profound sense of closeness and understanding. Through empathy, we have the power to strengthen relationships and foster a greater sense of community. Gratitude: Acknowledging Positive Impact Expressing gratitude through kind words is an act of being thankful for the positive impact others bring into our lives, big or small. By acknowledging their influence, we create a sense of positivity that can greatly influence our outlook on life. Scientific research highlights gratitude as one of the most powerful tools to cultivate a better sense of well-being. The Ripple Effect of Kindness Kindness has the incredible power to initiate a ripple effect, inspiring a chain reaction of kindness and positivity. When we show kindness to someone, they are more likely to pay it forward and extend that kindness to others. This cycle of positivity has a far-reaching impact on our communities and society as a whole, fostering a culture of benevolence and compassion. Conclusion In conclusion, being kind has a profound impact on our own well-being, cultivating positive emotions like compassion, empathy, and gratitude. Moreover, it has the power to create a ripple effect of kindness, leading to a cascade of positivity that benefits our communities and society at large. Let us all strive to cultivate the habit of saying something nice to others, embracing kindness, compassion, and empathy in our words. By doing so, we will not only reap personal benefits in the short term but also contribute to the betterment of society in the long run. ------------------------- Think of people in your life who you rarely or never compliment. What nice things could you say to each of them? Would you make it a regular practice? ------------------------- To receive notifications, press HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/] to add yourself to our taglist ------------------------- Learn HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupport_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/joiningthedepressionsupportsubcommunityleadershipteam_249997/] how to join the Depression Support team. We welcome you with open arms! -------------------------
October 2023 Events - National Depression Awareness Month
by EmmaE
Last post
 October 5th, 2023
...See more Happy October, Depression Support! This month, we will be celebrating National Depression Awareness Month throughout all of October! ------------------------- We have lots of different forum posts, discussions, icebreakers, and group support discussions happening in our depression support room [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]! Please keep an eye out for tags and alerts regarding our event activities <3 * What does depression mean to you/how has it affected you or someone you know? * What is a book, movie, or song that has had a positive impact on your mental health and why? * What's one thing you're grateful for, no matter how big or small? ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
September 2023 Events - World Gratitude Day
by EmmaE
Last post
 September 22nd, 2023
...See more Hello Hello Depression Support! This month, we will be celebrating World Gratitude Day on September 21! ------------------------- We have lots of different forum posts, discussions, icebreakers, and group support discussions happening in our depression support room [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]! Everything will be linked or added to this master post for easy access <3 Forum posts: * Discussion Schedule: [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php] * What is something you're grateful for? ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
June 2023 Events - National Say Something Nice Day
by EmmaE
Last post
 August 24th, 2023
...See more Hi Depression Support! This month, we will be celebrating National Say Something Nice Day on June 1! ------------------------- We have lots of different forum posts, discussions, icebreakers, and group support discussions happening in our depression support room [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]! Everything will be linked or added to this master post for easy access <3 Forum posts: * Saying something nice promotes our wellbeing [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/ForumActivitiesDiscussions_332/Sayingsomethingnicepromotesourwellbeing_306224/] Discussion Schedule: [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php] * ADULTS: Join heathermarie95 on June 1st at 8pm ET for a discussion on mindfulness How do you feel when others say nice things to you? How might saying nice things impact others? ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
Benefits of Relaxation for Coping with Depression
by HealingTalk
Last post
 August 18th, 2023
...See more ------------------------- This post is part of the “Relaxation Day” Event by the Depression Support Community. See the Event Masterpost by clicking HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/SpecialEvents_2180/August2023EventsNationalRelaxationDay_311025/] ------------------------- In today's fast-paced and stressful world, depression has become a common mental health issue. It affects millions of people like us worldwide. While there are many treatments available for depression, relaxation techniques have emerged as an effective and accessible method of coping with it. Given the global and widespread prevalence of depression, it is crucial to find affordable ways to treat it. Like regular exercise, exposure to sunlight, taking advantage of all the supportive places and activities that 7 Cups offers, and… Yes! Relaxation! Benefits of Relaxation for Coping with Depression Reducing Stress and Anxiety Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation have been proven to reduce stress and anxiety levels. When someone is overwhelmed by depression, their body releases stress hormones that further exacerbate their condition. By engaging in relaxation practices, we can activate our body's natural relaxation response, leading to a decrease in stress hormones and a sense of calmness. Enhancing Emotional Well-being Depression often causes us to experience a range of negative emotions such as sadness, anger, and frustration. Practicing relaxation techniques can help regulate these emotions and improve emotional well-being. Meditation, for example, encourages us to observe our thoughts and emotions without judgment, creating a sense of detachment from negative feelings. This detachment allows for greater emotional balance and resilience in the face of depression. Improving Sleep Patterns One of the common symptoms of depression is disrupted sleep patterns. We may struggle with insomnia or excessive sleeping, both of which further worsen our condition. Relaxation techniques promote better sleep by calming the mind and body, thus improving sleep quality and regulating sleep-wake cycles. Creating a consistent relaxation routine before bedtime can contribute to better sleep hygiene, which is essential for individuals coping with depression. Boosting Self-care and Self-compassion Depression often leads us to neglect self-care and practice self-criticism. Engaging in relaxation techniques encourages self-care and self-compassion. By dedicating time to relaxation, we prioritize our mental and physical well-being, nurturing ouselves in the process. This act of self-compassion can foster a more positive self-image and improve self-esteem, both of which are vital for coping with depression. Conclusion In conclusion, relaxation techniques offer numerous benefits for coping with depression. From reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing emotional well-being, improving sleep patterns, and boosting self-care and self-compassion, relaxation might play an important role in managing depression. By incorporating relaxation techniques into our daily routine, we can find solace and support on our healing journey. Anyone struggling with depression might recognize the importance of relaxation. For taking advantage of its benefits, it is crucial that we tailor a relaxation plan to fit our unique needs. ------------------------- Questions: * What helps you relax? * Does relaxing help you cope with depression? ------------------------- To receive notifications, press HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/] to add yourself to our taglist ------------------------- Learn HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupport_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/joiningthedepressionsupportsubcommunityleadershipteam_249997/] how to join the Depression Support team. We welcome you with open arms! ------------------------- Tagging taglist subscribers: [phantom-tagged DS taglist]
August 2023 Events - National Relaxation Day
by EmmaE
Last post
 August 15th, 2023
...See more Hi Depression Support! This month, we will be celebrating National Relaxation Day on August 15! ------------------------- We have lots of different forum posts, discussions, icebreakers, and group support discussions happening in our depression support room [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]! Everything will be linked or added to this master post for easy access <3 Forum posts: * Benefits of Relaxation for Coping with Depression [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/SpecialEvents_2180/BenefitsofRelaxationforCopingwithDepression_311032/] * Ice-breakers for National Relaxation Day! [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/General_2427/IcebreakersforNationalRelaxationDay_311058/] Discussion Schedule: [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php] * ADULTS: Join pandanfe at 12pm ET for a discussion on loving yourself What does relaxation mean to you? ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
July 2023 Events - Global Forgiveness Day
by EmmaE
Last post
 July 18th, 2023
...See more Hi Depression Support! This month, we will be celebrating Global Forgiveness Day on July 17! ------------------------- We have lots of different forum posts, discussions, icebreakers, and group support discussions happening in our depression support room [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]! Everything will be linked or added to this master post for easy access <3 Forum posts: * Forgiveness icebreakers [https://www.7cups.com/forum/depression/Icebreakers_211/ForgivenessDay17thJuly2023_308970/] Discussion Schedule: [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php] * TBD What does forgiveness mean to you? ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
May 2023 Events - Mental Health Awareness Week
by EmmaE
Last post
 June 16th, 2023
...See more Hi Depression Support! This month, we will be celebrating Mental Health Awareness Week from May 15-21! ------------------------- We have lots of different forum posts, discussions, icebreakers, and group support discussions happening in our depression support room [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php]! Everything will be linked or added to this master post for easy access <3 Forum posts: * Our Common Human Nature and Mental Health [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupport_52/ForumActivitiesDiscussions_332/OurCommonHumanNatureandMentalHealth_305155/] Discussion Schedule: [https://www.7cups.com/connect/groupChatrooms.php] * TEENS: Join kenzolena on May 15th at 12pm ET for an open chat * TEENS: Join kenzolena on May 16tth at 12pm ET for an open chat * ADULTS: Join heathermarie95 on May 16th at 9:30pm ET for a discussion on depression and boundaries What does mental health mean to you? How can you support your mental health? ------------------------- If you’d like to join the depression support team, please check out THIS POST [https://www.7cups.com/forum/7CupsLeadership_188/SubcommunityHelpWanted_2306/HelpWantedDepressionSupport2023_295219/] for more information. To join our tag list and receive notifications, click HERE [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupportCommunity_52/DepressionSupportLeadershipTeam_404/NEWautomateddepressionsupporttaglist_274831/].
September 2022 Events - World Suicide Prevention Day
by EmmaE
Last post
 April 20th, 2023
...See more Hi Depression Support! Our community is celebrating World Suicide Prevention Day for this month today, September 10. ------------------------- We have lots of different forum posts, discussions, icebreakers, and group support discussions happening in our depression support room! Everything will be linked or added to this masterpost for easy access <3 * Forum posts * In case one day you think about suicide [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupport_52/ForumActivitiesDiscussions_332/Incaseonedayyouthinkaboutsuicide_285668/] * Let's share our story [https://www.7cups.com/forum/DepressionSupport_52/ForumActivitiesDiscussions_332/LetsShareOurStory_285732/] * Discussion schedule * * TEENS: Join @Here4good on Sept 10 at 1pm ET for a discussion on depression and suicidal ideation

We hope that you can find some respite here from what you're going through. We all help each other through the darkness. Welcome, friends, to the Depression Support Community at 7 Cups. We're so happy you're here <3

Click the "join" button above to stay up to date with the community's activities! We'd love to have you as a friend!

Adults & Teens: Join us in the Depression Support Room every Tuesday! The room is open for 24 hours. 

💗 New to the Depression Support Community? We want to get to know you! Introduce yourself here! And here's a welcome guide for you!

💗 Join us in our daily check-ins here and join the taglist here!

💗 Are you interested in joining the Depression Support team? Learn more and apply here!

Community Guidelines

Be gentle to yourself, you're doing the best you can. Remember that your feelings are your own, and no one can tell you that they are not valid.

Be gentle with others, because you don't know what they're going through.

Read the 7 Cups Guidelines
Community Leaders
Community Mentor Leader
@EmmaE
Forum Supporter
@Angelanj
@bestVase7265
Room Supporter
@chyni
@orianathebookworm
Community Resources

(all colourful text is clickable)

- 9 Types of Depression and How To Recognize Them 

- You don't have to understand, you just have to be present by @MarianaFilipaSouza6

A beautiful testament to the nature of depression

- Rethink Mental Illness: Depression

Basic information and facts

- Resource Masterpost by @Sealiously

A plethora of amazing links

- Depression Self Help Guide

Discover some ways to help manage what you're going through

- Safety Plan

Here's a safety plan for those who are passively suicidal. Your life is important

- Resources to Help Manage Depression

A collection of helpful links for more information and support

- Depression Community Path

A path that helps guide you through dealing with depression on a day to day basis


(Think that more resources should be here? Send a message to @EmmaE)