Why do we focus on or feel drawn to others depressive thoughts and feelings?
I’ve just noticed the last few weeks that I keep coming across social media reels on topics about depression and low self-worth. It’s just interesting to me that we do these things which probably just increase depression and rumination but it leads to feeling worse. It’s a dark cycle for us likely looking for connection in times of isolation. Kind of like the “misery loves company” phrase. My mother overheard me listening to these types of videos and was very vocal asking why I am doing this to myself.
@toughWillow934
Your mother does have a point 🩷
In difficult times, surrounding ourselves with uplifting messages is much more beneficial 🩷
@toughWillow934
I think that kind of content can feel really validating and relatable when you feel that way. But it can become a loop as you said, and without a plan to step out of the cycle, it is not helpful long term.
@toughWillow934
It makes sense you’d be drawn to those videos when you’re feeling low. You’re not doing anything wrong, you’re trying to feel less alone, and that’s very human.
@toughWillow934
It is perfectly reasonable to seek some validation when you are feeling isolated and in a dark place. It's good to know that we are not alone and that there are others in the world who feel the same way. Social media has a terrible way of turning us numb, however--the brain goes into automatic view, double tap, scroll, repeat mode--and that can end up making us feel worse. When I get into that mode there is something that helps me, which is that I read a few and then when I realize I am scrolling and scrolling I stop and say something to myself such as "OK, now I know I'm not alone" or "There are other people who feel the same way" and then I deliberately change the thread to something else (cute panda videos anyone?). That works for me, maybe you can think of something that would break the doom cycle for you. Share with the rest of us if you do!
@toughWillow934
Hi! I see you feel guilty or maybe think it’s wrong to watch videos addressing topics like depression while you are going through it yourself, which I think is partly your mom’s perspective. It’s nothing wrong to increase awareness, buddy. Besides, normalising your problems makes you see them in a healthier way!
Hope I was helpful! Take care.💖
Yeah, I agree. It's like Newton's law of inertia. I think we try to find comfort in it. Knowing there are other people like us reminds us that we're not alone, no matter how lonely it feels. Unfortunately, it's not something you can spontaneously open up about and have people agree with or even understand you. It does make you feel bad in the long run, though. I think it gives us a tunnel vision, making us believe that this is the life we are meant to live and nothing we do can change it, but that is simply not the truth. Like everything in life, there has to be a limit. No harm in indulging in this habit every now and then but regularly doing it would cause damage to the psyche, much like any other bad habit.
