Making progress in dealing with anxiety or depression can be an important step towards better mental health. Here are some ways to determine if you're doing better than before:
Improved Coping Skills: Notice if you're handling stressful situations or triggers more effectively. You might find that you're using healthier coping mechanisms instead of resorting to harmful behaviors.
Reduced Frequency and Intensity: Pay attention to the frequency and intensity of anxiety or depressive episodes. If they are becoming less frequent and less severe, it could indicate progress.
Increased Productivity: Check if you're able to carry out daily tasks and responsibilities more efficiently and with less difficulty. Improved productivity can be a positive sign of progress.
Better Sleep Patterns: Sleep disturbances are common in anxiety and depression. If you notice an improvement in your sleep patterns, such as falling asleep more easily or waking up less during the night, this may indicate positive changes.
Enhanced Social Interaction: Notice if you are engaging more with others, feeling more comfortable in social situations, and maintaining healthier relationships.
Reduced Isolation: If you find yourself isolating less and participating in activities or events that you previously avoided, it may indicate progress in managing anxiety or depression.
Increased Enjoyment: Pay attention to whether you are finding pleasure and joy in activities you once enjoyed but couldn't derive satisfaction from during periods of anxiety or depression.
Self-Awareness: An increased awareness of your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors can show that you are making progress in understanding and managing your mental health.
Setting and Achieving Goals: If you're setting realistic goals for yourself and making progress towards achieving them, it's a positive sign that you are moving forward.
Seeking Help: Taking the initiative to seek professional support or therapy demonstrates that you are actively working towards managing your anxiety or depression.
Acceptance and Resilience: Progress can be seen in how you handle setbacks and difficult emotions. Improved acceptance and resilience in the face of challenges indicate growth.
It's essential to remember that progress is not always linear, and there may be ups and downs along the way. Celebrate even the smallest victories, and be patient with yourself during the journey towards better mental health. If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about your progress, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for guidance and support.