How To Navigate Depression

Lately, I’ve been asking myself a question I know so many of us have thought at some point: Why am I depressed? If you’ve ever felt like this heavy, can’t-seem-to-move-forward kind of sadness that lingers no matter how much you try to shake it off, in this post, I’m sharing a unique perspective on depression based on personal experiences and what you can do to take back control.

Everything Feels Out Of Control And Hopeless

One of the biggest reasons I’ve felt depressed recently is the overwhelming feeling that so much in my life is out of my control. Whether it’s career uncertainty, financial stress, or not knowing what’s coming next, that sense of helplessness can be exhausting.

If you’re struggling with this, here’s what can help:

Identify what you can control – When everything feels chaotic, find even the smallest things within your power. It could be organising your space, setting a daily routine, or just eating breakfast. We often dismiss these steps but everyone one of them is a small win.

Take things one step at a time – Instead of trying to fix everything at once, focus on the next right step. For example I was broke and struggling financially. I couldn't afford to buy new clothes but I could go to the charity shop. Progress happens in small, manageable actions.

You're Not Where You Want To Be

A lot of us have been conditioned to believe that success should look a certain way—hit this milestone by 25, achieve that goal by 30. And when we don’t meet those invisible deadlines, we start feeling like failures.

Here’s how to stop letting unrealistic expectations hold you back:

Recognise the progress you’ve already made – Instead of focusing on what you haven’t done, look at how far you’ve come. Even if you only brush your teeth today, every step forward, no matter how small, is still progress.

Challenge the ‘timeline’ in your head – Who said you needed to have it all figured out by now? A lot of us feel under so much pressure to have everything figured out but the reality is life is uncertain, and that’s okay. It’s about learning to sit with the discomfort without letting it define you.

Redefine what success means for you - Success isn’t just a job title, a salary, or a LinkedIn update. It's also getting out of bed when you don’t feel like it, sending that email you’ve been dreading, or simply making it through the day.

Nobody Understands What You're Going Through

When you’re struggling, it’s easy to withdraw. You tell yourself no one understands, no one really gets what you’re going through. But the truth is, so many people feel this way—we just don’t talk about it enough.

If you’re feeling alone in your experience, here’s what might help:

Consume content that makes you feel seen – Sometimes, hearing someone else’s experience can help validate your own. Listen to podcasts, watch YouTube videos, or read stories from people who’ve been where you are.

Find a way to be heard – You don’t need to be “fixed.” You just need to be heard. Seek out people and spaces that allow you to feel that. Whether it’s therapy, a support group, or even an online community, connection matters.

Final Thoughts

Depression can make it feel like nothing will ever change, but that’s not true. You can move forward, even if it’s just one tiny step at a time.

Here’s what to remember:

You have more control than you think – Even if it’s just over small things, reclaiming that power can make a difference.

You don’t have to meet anyone else’s timeline – Success, healing, and growth happen at your own pace.

You’re not the only one feeling this way – Connection is important, and you don’t have to do this alone.

If today’s post resonated with you, you can listen to the full episode of The Deborah Missengue Podcast.

* Please note The Deborah Missengue Podcast content is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment