People with depression or anxiety may make plans but struggle to stick to them due to the impact of their mental health conditions on their behavior and cognition. Here are some reasons why this might happen:
Lack of motivation: Depression can cause a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. This lack of motivation can make it challenging for individuals to follow through with plans, even if they initially agreed to them.
Fatigue and low energy: Both depression and anxiety can lead to feelings of fatigue and low energy levels, making it physically and emotionally difficult to engage in social activities or keep commitments.
Social withdrawal: Depression can cause individuals to withdraw from social interactions. When the time comes to follow through with plans, they might feel overwhelmed or anxious about being around others, leading them to cancel or avoid the activity.
Cognitive distortions: Anxiety can lead to cognitive distortions, such as catastrophic thinking or excessive worry. These negative thought patterns might convince individuals that they will fail at their plans or that something terrible will happen, leading them to avoid the situation altogether.
Fear of judgment: People with anxiety may worry about how others perceive them or fear being judged. This fear might lead them to cancel plans to avoid potential social scrutiny or uncomfortable situations.
Difficulty concentrating: Both depression and anxiety can impair concentration and memory. As a result, individuals may forget about plans or find it challenging to organize themselves to attend events.
Unpredictable symptoms: Mental health conditions can be unpredictable, with symptoms fluctuating over time. Someone who made plans during a period of relative stability might find that their symptoms worsen closer to the scheduled event, making it difficult to follow through.
Avoidance coping: Avoidance is a common coping mechanism for anxiety. Individuals may avoid situations that trigger their anxiety, which includes canceling plans, as a way to manage distress.
Self-isolation: Individuals with depression may tend to self-isolate as a way to cope with their feelings. This isolation can lead to avoiding social engagements and canceling plans.
It's essential to approach individuals with empathy and understanding. If you notice a friend or loved one struggling with sticking to plans, be supportive and non-judgmental. Encourage them to talk about what they're going through and offer help or suggest seeking professional support if needed. Remember that mental health conditions can significantly impact a person's daily functioning, and patience and support can make a difference in their journey towards recovery.