Student Blog Series- Author: Dave Irwin
The Invisible Struggle: Living with Depression and Anxiety
Okay, all cards on the table: I live with depression and anxiety. To those who know me best that’s not a revelation. But putting it out there for my social media peeps is scary. I’m revealing this because I know there are others, perhaps many others, who also silently deal with it, and I want you to know you’re not alone.
Coping with Depression and Anxiety: My Personal Journey
In general, depression and anxiety make a few things in life harder than they should be. They isolate you, make you doubt yourself, and very often deprive you of motivation to do the things you love and want to do.
Finding Strength and Support: Dealing with Depression and Anxiety
The worst part is that it’s often invisible to others: while you’re struggling, their expectations of you don’t change. So, you appear flaky, inconsiderate, lazy, and unreliable. And believing you’re being judged by others feeds the cycle.
Strategies for Coping: My Experience with Depression and Anxiety
Everybody is different, and we face these challenges in different ways. I hope those of you who struggle as I do can find ways that work for you to cope and overcome. These may not be your solution, but here are some things that I’ve found work for me:
1. The Importance of Rest
Get plenty of rest. Lack of sleep is a huge trigger for me. Sadly, I seem to have to relearn this one over and over again.
2. Building a Support System
Have a close support system that knows and understands. My main point of support is my incredible wife. She understands and accepts that I struggle with this. It’s also extremely helpful to get pep talks from compassionate mentors who champion and cheer me on.
3. Taking Mental Breaks
Take breaks from the things that are mentally exhausting. In my case, that’s coding. I often get so absorbed by a project that I will focus on it for hours or days, with very little downtime. Regular breaks, whether that’s stepping away for a few hours or a few days, are essential for me to avoid burnout.
4. Cathartic Writing
Writing. For me, writing is cathartic. It allows me to work through what I’m feeling and put it into concrete thoughts, instead of leaving a muddle of confusing feelings rattling around in my brain.
Navigating Depression and Anxiety as a System Software Developer
There’s no easy solution to depression and anxiety. Without good care and awareness, they can and often do become crippling. To those who are working through this: keep going, keep pushing. You are stronger than you know. I salute you and I support you.
Choosing Growth: The Path to a Fulfilling Career as a Software Developer
Interested in changing careers and becoming a software developer? Learn more about Promineo Tech’s programs and how we help students make this transition through affordable, low-risk technology education: Start Your Journey: Exploring Promineo Tech’s Coding Programs for Career Transition
