Why daily routines are good for my mental health

In response to The Daily Post: Creature

I have to admit it, I am a creature of habit. Not extremely so, it is not like task A has to be completed at time B. But sticking to some points of orientation helps a lot.

I suffer from major depression and anxiety disorder to the point where everything can become a real challenge. Quitting work also robbed my of my daily structure. This is a blessing, because I am not overwhelmed by the daily events anymore. It is also a curse, because I have to make up my own daily routine now.

I forget things easily, so every new appointment is written in my calendar app asap. My mobile phone is always nearby, so this is the best solution. The kind of app I use syncs automatically with my laptop and tablet, so whatever device I use I know I am always up to date. Before I go to bed, I check the appointments for the next day and set the alarm clock if necessary. This gives me the opportunity to start the day as early as needed, so I don’t feel rushed or anxious.

After waking up, I take my meds and have breakfast. After that I try to do chores, it makes me feel better to know I did something productive. If possible, I try to schedule my therapy and doctors appointments in the late morning, because this is my best time. Later, when my husband comes home from work, I cook dinner. While I am up and about, I try again to squeeze some chores in, like washing the dishes, so I have the good feeling of having accomplished something.

After that, I take a nap, get online or whatever I want to do. My husband usually goes to bed around 10 p.m. and I usually take this as my sign to take my night meds, brush my teeth, check my appointments for the next day and join him. So I take my meds at the same time every evening and have regular sleep schedule.

This are many small things that make me feel like I have some control over my life, and it does wonders for my mood. In hectic times when sticking to my schedule is not possible, I feel more stressed and sad.

So I think I will remain a creature of habit 😉