Do The Opposite

And be continually renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh, untarnished mental and spiritual attitude].

Ephesians 4:23 amp

The emotions that accompany depression can be strong. They drive our behaviors and our thoughts and can have long-term effects. Whether we realize it or not, sometimes our emotions are in the driver’s seat.

In the field of mental health, there are many tools and techniques to help those who struggle with depression, and one of those techniques is to do the opposite of what we feel inclined to do. Here is how it could work:

• Feel like staying in bed? Choose to get up and take a shower. Choose to get dressed in street clothes instead of pajamas.
• Feel like isolating? Choose to actively reach out to someone in your support circle, or take an interest in someone else. Maybe it’s time to go somewhere where there are people, such as church or the park.
• Feel like sleeping? Choose to get active. Take a walk. Read a book. Call a friend and engage in conversation.

When we recognize that a behavior or emotion is getting in the way of us living a full and meaningful life, we can take steps to change. It sounds simple, but when we struggle with feelings of sadness and would rather withdraw into ourselves, that is the time to do the opposite. By doing so, we are choosing to change our experience, not suppress it. When we realize an emotion or behavior affects us negatively, we can choose to act in a way that produces a positive result instead.

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

Reinhold Niebuhr

To change a habit, make a conscious decision, then act out the new behavior.

Maxwell Maltz

We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing. Consequences give us the pain that motivates us to change.

Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend

For Further Reflection

Proverbs 15:18; Proverbs 29:11; Galatians 5:16–24

Today’s Prayer

Lord, I get stuck in a rut following my feelings. When it is in my best interest and according to your will, please help me to make a different choice. In Jesus’ name. Amen