If you are depressed, it can be hard to find the motivation and energy to be as active as you would like to be. Not to worry, you are not the only one going through this.
If you ever need to talk about depression or mental health, Premier Mental Health is here for you.
We can help in a variety of ways, including motivational interviewing for depression motivation.
Do not forget that any exercise is better than none and that each step you take is one more toward your goal.
Let’s explain how to motivate yourself to work out when depressed, address strategies and activities for low-energy days, and advise when to seek medical help.
Do Not Wait for Motivation
Even simple tasks, such as taking a shower, can seem daunting when you are depressed. When it comes to exercise, do not wait for a moment of inspiration. Try thinking in reverse. Instead of saying, “I will go for a walk when I feel better,” consider this: “I will go for a walk to help me feel better.” Over time, this will become easier.
To remind yourself to go for your daily walk, place a sticky note on your mirror or next to the couch.
How Do I Get Motivated to Go to the Gym?
It is likely that putting on workout clothes is just as hard as just thinking about working out.
It is not easy to do this, but there are a few things you can do to make it easier:
- Put your shoes by the door so you are ready to go
- Set a time to go for a walk every day
- Get a family member or friend to join you (accountability)
- Dress for work before bed so you are ready to go when you wake up
How to Get Motivated to Exercise with Depression?
There are many things that can help you get more motivated to work out. Since everyone is different, what works for one person might not work for someone else. Putting strategies together could be helpful.
The following are some ideas for possible ways to boost motivation:
- Start Small
If you are depressed, the thought of starting a strict workout routine might be too much to handle.
Start small instead. Go for a short walk around the block or do 10 minutes of yoga at home as goals that you can reach.
Putting your workout into smaller, more manageable pieces can help you feel like you can do it.
- Focus on Things You Enjoy
Going to the gym or running on the street does not have to be your idea of exercise if those things do not interest you.
Instead, you should focus on things you really enjoy. What makes you happy and want to move your body?
It could be dancing to your favorite music, swimming, gardening, or playing a sport.
- Set Up a Routine
Making a routine can help you feel more structured and consistent, which can be especially helpful when you are dealing with depression.
Setting your workouts for the same time every day or week will make them a must-do part of your routine.
This habit can help you stay motivated to work out over time and make it seem like a normal part of your day.
- Setting Realistic Goals
It is important to set reasonable goals for yourself, especially if you are depressed.
There will be days when you do not want to work out, and that is okay.
Treat yourself with kindness and enjoy small wins, like finishing a short workout or just putting on your workout clothes.
- Find a Workout Buddy
Working out with someone can hold you accountable and keep motivation to get to the gym, even on days when you are not feeling well.
Whether it is a pet, family member, or friend, working out with someone can make it more fun and less stressful. Plus, it is a chance to meet new people and socialize, which can be positive in and of itself.
- Focus on the Benefits
Remind yourself of all the ways that exercise is good for your mind and body.
Physical activity on a regular basis has been shown to help people with depression, improve their mood, give them more energy, help them sleep better, and lower their stress and anxiety.
Keeping these benefits in mind can help motivate you to priorities exercise, even when you’re not feeling up to it.
- Get Professional Help
If your depression is making it hard for you to find the motivation to work out, do not be afraid to get professional help.
A therapist or counsellor can help you figure out what is really making you unmotivated and come up with ways to deal with them that are specific to your needs.
A healthcare provider can also help you figure out how to include exercise in your treatment plan.
In conclusion, How to motivate yourself to work out when depressed?
It can be hard to get yourself to work out when you are feeling down, but it is not impossible.
It is important to start small, focus on things you enjoy, and set goals that you can actually reach.
Exercise is good for your mental and physical health, so do not forget that.
And if you are having a hard time, do not be afraid to get help from a professional. Remember that every move you make to be more active makes you feel better.
FAQs
How to motivate someone to work out?
Set short-term fitness goals with someone and help them reach them as a reward. Offer to work out with them people are more likely to go to the gym if they know you care about them. Play music that will motivate them.
Can depression affect your physical strength?
Long-term effects of depression can be significant because it affects both the body and the mind. Fatigue, loss of energy, and hopelessness can lead to unhealthy habits, such as a lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, and weight gain or loss.
How to increase mental stamina?
Be aware of your surroundings when working on tasks, remove any potential distractions from your environment to help you build mental stamina.
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