As I stopped being so busy, I unintentionally began isolating myself, which only compounded my anxiety and depression. I felt like I shouldn’t still be struggling so much. It had been nearly 4 years since Jon passed, and I thought I would have been past this point. Those feelings contributed to my depression because I was putting expectations on myself instead of leaving those things in the Lord’s hands. The Lord finally got my attention and made it very clear that I needed to get some help. My kids and I moved in with my parents for a couple of months, and while there, I started getting counseling. During counseling, God showed me the unhealthy thought patterns and destructive behaviors I was holding on to, and slowly He helped me let go of those and deepened my trust in Him. He helped me release control of my life and leave it in His much more capable hands. During that time, God made it clear that we needed to move closer to family. We moved from Maine to New Hampshire into a little house just down the street from my folks, which was a big step in my healing journey. 
Moving Past Depression
Moving past depression doesn't mean forgetting our loved ones or our loss. Instead, it involves finding ways to live alongside our grief. Here are six tips that have helped me navigate this dreary stage:
1. Seek Professional Help: Counseling or a grief support group can provide an invaluable support and help you develop coping mechanisms. Don’t hesitate to seek help from professionals who specialize in grief counseling. This was so important in my grieving process. It helped me gain perspective and look to the Lord for help and comfort, instead of focusing so much on myself.
2. Engage in Self-Care: Simple acts, such as taking a warm bath, going for a walk, or being intentional with your thoughts can help alleviate some of the burden. Daily fresh air is so important, so if you find you’re staying cooped up, go outside and get some deep breaths of fresh air. It can help clear your thoughts and lift your mood. Also, consider using essential oils like Lavender or Frankincense to create a calming environment inside your home.
The conclusion and final 4 tips will be in next week's post.
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