For many of us, maintaining personal hygiene feels like a no-brainer. Showering, brushing our hair, and changing clothes are just part of our daily routine. We brush our teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, and we generally take pride in our appearance. But when you’re grappling with depression or other serious mental health issues, those tasks can turn into monumental challenges.
I know this all too well. Living with anxiety, PTSD, and depression has made me acutely aware of how difficult it can be to keep up with even the simplest self-care routines. There have been days when I’ve gone four days without bathing. My shirt might smell like a mix of deli meats and onions, and my teeth? Well, let’s just say my toothbrush is still packed from a weekend trip, waiting for me to find the motivation to use it.
This isn’t something I’m proud of, and I doubt anyone living with a mental health condition would be. It’s a reality that often goes unspoken. I don’t usually share these struggles with my therapist or psychiatrist, but they’re undoubtedly a part of my experience.
According to a Healthline article, many people with depression find it hard to complete basic hygiene tasks, like brushing their teeth or washing their hair. Clinical psychologist Sarah Adams explains that this often stems from a lack of energy and motivation. “When you’re enveloped in depression, even getting out of bed can feel like lifting a mountain,” she notes.
There are times when I feel paralyzed by my mental health. It’s as if I’m stranded in the ocean, just trying to stay afloat. The thought of showering can feel overwhelming, and the physical pain that accompanies my mental state makes even the simplest tasks feel unbearable. Showers can sting, and when I’m in a depressive episode, I often just don’t care.
To cope, I throw on big hoodies and oversized coats to hide the fact that I’m wearing the same outfit day after day. When I step out, I wear a mask—not just for COVID safety but to mask my breath and the unkempt state of my hair.
You might be wondering why I don’t just take care of myself to make things easier. The truth is, depression often defies logic. Even when I know that self-care is important, it can feel impossible to muster the energy to take that first step.
Eventually, I do manage to shower, change my clothes, and brush my hair and teeth. I’ve been through this cycle before and know I can come out on the other side. I have supportive friends and family who remind me that I’m worth the effort. I also have a fantastic psychiatrist and therapist who can sense when I’m struggling, even if I don’t voice it.
So, if you’re finding it hard to bathe today or feel like your hair is a tangled mess, remember that you’re not alone. You’re not a bad person or lazy; you’re simply facing a tough battle. But there is help and hope out there. With therapy, medication, and self-compassion, you can get through this. Just reach out for support, whether that’s through a friend or a community like the Make a Mom Facebook group, where you can connect with others who understand. If you’re considering home insemination, check out Make a Mom for their unique reusable options. Plus, their how it works page offers detailed insights on the process.
If you’re looking for more resources, the Drugs.com support group is an excellent place to start. And if you want to explore home insemination options, their intracervical insemination syringe kit is worth checking out.
In summary, mental illness can severely impact our ability to perform everyday hygiene tasks, making us feel isolated and overwhelmed. Recognizing this struggle is the first step toward healing. Remember, you’re not alone, and support is available.
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