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What is the deal with procrastination and wanting to do good things? Is it related to depression?

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What is the deal with procrastination and wanting to do good things? Is it related to depression? By Anonymous | Published on December 25, 2024

Female, 27 years old, teacher.

I don't know when it started, but whether it's depression/does-shiatsu-therapy-work-for-depression-in-friends-8792.html" target="_blank">work or reading and studying, I always procrastinate. Although I know I have to get things done, I always want to play for a while longer. When there's little time left, I finally force myself to get started. And once I start doing things, I will settle down and do them very seriously, striving to do my best.

Because I want to be better, I feel remorseful when I realize that I don't have enough time, and I wonder why I didn't start earlier. And once I finish what I'm doing, I'll relax again, not wanting to do anything, just putting things off.

It just goes on and on like this. I don't know what's causing this.

Is it related to depression? Moderate depression was diagnosed a year ago, but my family doesn't believe it, and no treatment has been done since. During this period, I relied on self-soothing to relieve the symptoms.

But I feel like I've been in a bad state. Do I still need treatment, and what will happen if I don't?

Ruby Fernandez Ruby Fernandez A total of 53 people have been helped

Hello there!

From what you've told me, it seems like you're a very hard-working person who takes their time with things and sometimes struggles to meet deadlines. I can imagine how frustrating that must feel!

And the moderate depression diagnosed a year ago made you start to think that your procrastination might be caused by depression. Is that right?

I'm sure you'll find the answer if you just take a moment to isolate and discuss your confusion, and add the dimension of time.

First, let's take a moment to assess the impact of depression.

As a general rule, mild depression doesn't have a big impact on social life. But with moderate depression, it really depends on the person.

I'd love to know more about your situation and what impact your moderate depression is having on you.

For example, how is your sleep? And your diet?

And how are your work and interpersonal relationships going?

And so on.

Depression can really take a toll on our social lives. It's not just a loss of interest, but also slow movement and other changes in behavior.

It's totally understandable that a lack of motivation can lead to a decline in social functioning, so it's really not surprising if you find it impossible to complete the tasks set.

Second, it might be helpful to think about how you were feeling mentally and physically before and after you were diagnosed with moderate depression.

If you find yourself procrastinating after being diagnosed with moderate depression, it might be tempting to blame it on your mental health. But is that really the case?

If you've been putting things off for a while now and it's become a habit, it's probably not depression to blame.

It's so important to remember that we shouldn't automatically blame depression for procrastination.

I'd also like to add:

It's so important to make sure that our judgment isn't clouded by fixed thinking.

So, it's important not to jump to conclusions.

Let's say, for instance, that we're typically very self-disciplined, highly efficient, and never procrastinate.

But we all need to relax and adjust just once or twice!

Our subconscious mind is clever like that. It gives our bodies a rest by deliberately creating delays.

And a tendency to think in a linear way, seeking proof of cause and effect. One can't help but wonder whether it is depression that causes procrastination.

As a result, we really found that procrastination is indeed related to depression. We also found that we've been neglecting a lot of things that we really should have done for a long time.

And finally, I just wanted to remind you of something really important.

Procrastination is not necessarily caused by depression, although there is a certain probability of it. Do normal people also procrastinate? I'd love to know your thoughts on this!

It's important to remember that depressive mood and depression are two different things. Depressive mood is a normal emotion that everyone experiences from time to time.

Let's look at the most basic criteria for judging depression.

It's so sad when we feel powerless and helpless, and it can even lead to pessimistic crying, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and depression.

In more severe cases, some people may even experience physical reactions.

If you're absolutely certain it's depression, it might be a good idea to chat with a professional. Severe depression often requires medication.

The good news is that a combination of medication and psychotherapy may help alleviate or even cure moderate depression.

If you don't get help, the longer it goes on, the worse it can get. It can also be harder to treat.

Hello, my name is Counselor Yao, and I'm here for you! I'll be there to support and care for you every step of the way.

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Catherine Anne Nelson Catherine Anne Nelson A total of 5506 people have been helped

Good day, questioner. It may be a matter of coincidence that I, who once faced the same confusion as you, have crossed paths with you. From your description, I recall that I also had similar issues many years ago. I was a dedicated individual striving for excellence, yet I struggled with procrastination and a lack of willpower.

The issue is not a lack of willpower or diligence. Once we begin a task, we are highly practical, focused, and meticulous, striving for optimal results. We may even experience the feeling of "flow," a psychological state characterized by a sense of immersion in a task. In this state, individuals are typically uninterruptible and experience a sense of high excitement and fulfillment, dedicating their mental energy fully to the task at hand.

It is therefore evident that the issue does not lie with a lack of willpower, concentration, or dedication, nor is it a lack of interest or enjoyment in the task. The underlying cause of procrastination is our tendency towards perfectionism, which is driven by fear.

There are two driving forces behind perfectionism. One is a genuine love and pursuit of beauty, which drives people to constantly strive for perfection and do things with a craftsman's spirit. Generally speaking, people who work under this driving force are more motivated and proactive. They are less concerned with time deadlines and more focused on the task at hand. They may even continue to optimize until the deadline. Their focus is on the task itself, so they don't always do things with an eye on the deadline. They don't have fear in their hearts.

Another factor driving perfectionism is fear and anxiety. This negative emotional drive causes concern that tasks will not be completed adequately, resulting in criticism from others. Even if there is no external criticism, perfectionists driven by this motivation tend to hesitate and slow down, as they are fearful, anxious, and sensitive to judgments and criticism. They also seek praise and are eager for recognition.

Once they begin working, their attention is focused on the task at hand and they possess numerous positive qualities, including willpower, concentration, likeability, and dedication. This enables them to overcome their preconceived fears and insecurities. However, a challenge arises when they start working relatively late and are unable to meet their requirements within the specified time frame. This often leads to regret over why they didn't start earlier.

What steps should we take to improve?

It is important to recognize your own positive qualities and attributes, rather than dwelling on perceived shortcomings. These could include your willpower, focus, dedication, creativity, attention to detail, or even your passion for your work. By doing so, you can enhance your emotional resilience and strengthen the driving force of "perfectionism." It is essential to understand that different forces within us are constantly competing for dominance. By nurturing a positive emotional strength, you can effectively counterbalance and overcome negative forces.

When you identify your inner unrest and fear, do you consider the opinions and comments of others? Do you place a high value on the feedback and criticism of others, and do you experience prolonged negative effects due to their dissatisfaction?

Do you seek external validation and recognition? Do you feel demotivated when you do not receive the level of recognition you desire?

Or, perhaps, we should consider what we are truly afraid of and what our concerns are.

Are we at the point of hesitation? When we encounter our inner unrest and fear, it is essential to maintain an attitude of tolerance and acceptance. We all have an inner child that needs to be seen and cared for. It is crucial to recognize our own needs and realize that we have the power to comfort ourselves without blaming or judging.

When we identify and address these internal conflicts, we can shift our focus from external concerns to the task at hand. This allows us to make step-by-step improvements and achieve our goals.

It is important to create a plan that considers the importance and urgency of tasks. Pay special attention to important but not urgent tasks, as these are the tasks that are most likely to be delayed. For the first time, we can start n days before the deadline. Gradually increase the time to start earlier. For example, on the next important but not urgent task, set the time to start earlier as n+1 days before the deadline. On the next important but not urgent task, set the time to start earlier as n+2 days before the deadline. Continue in this manner until all tasks are completed.

For less important tasks, it is advisable to lower expectations and self-requirements. There is no need to over-prepare. Begin with the least important task and try to relax. Avoid being overly nervous about the details. After the task is complete, observe others' judgmental attitudes and your own emotional changes. You will find that there are three types of attitudes from others: 1. Indifference: They do not care about the outcome as much as we think. 2. Problem-solving and improvement: Focus on the task at hand, not the attitude of others. Do not take it personally. 3. Recognition of results.

It is also important to learn to accept praise from others with a degree of skepticism. While others may be polite and courteous, even if they praise you sincerely, you should be aware of whether your efforts are truly worthy of such recognition. This will help you maintain a more objective perspective.

Furthermore, you referenced depression in your inquiry. One aspect I'm uncertain if you've considered is that you stated your family doesn't believe in it, yet you didn't elaborate. This indicates that you place a high value on others' opinions. Additionally, you expressed a desire to rely on your own strength to overcome it, which demonstrates that you possess admirable qualities like resilience and determination, as I had anticipated. Many individuals lack confidence in their ability to manage depression, yet you appear to have a stronger sense of self-assurance. However, due to the prolonged nature of your condition, you've developed a sense of self-doubt. Your final question is also thought-provoking. Are you inquiring about the potential outcomes of participating in treatment?

You are inquiring as to whether your condition will improve if you do not attend therapy sessions.

This indicates a lack of trust in the efficacy of psychological counseling and therapy. What are the underlying reasons for this? One possibility is concern about the competence of counselors and therapists.

Or are you concerned about disclosing your issues to others and finding it challenging to do so? Or are you apprehensive about not being accepted?

My advice is to consult with a professional organization and seek advice from a professional consultant. This is also an attempt to overcome the tendency to procrastinate. Instead of worrying before taking action, it is more productive to take action first. In the process, you will gain a different perspective and approach.

I hope the above suggestions will bring you a positive outlook and good fortune, allowing you to worry less and be less entangled in the new year. I encourage you to proceed.

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Lance Lance A total of 6790 people have been helped

Hello, I'm Jialan.

After reading your description, I'd like to share my views and suggestions. I hope they're helpful!

Let's look at why people procrastinate. The reasons may seem different, but they're actually quite similar.

This task doesn't have an urgent deadline, so we wait.

This task is hard and we don't know where to start, so we wait until we can't wait and start. We don't do it well because we're in a hurry, but we blame the lack of time, not our abilities.

We ignore things we don't like. When it's too late, we have to face them.

How can you improve your procrastination?

Leonardo da Vinci, the world-famous painter, also had a special method to solve his procrastination. For example, he used environmental law to create a method for finishing tasks.

There are many ways to try it out. For example, we divide the tasks into sections, and the first action is within the 20-second rule. Psychology says that people can start an action within 20 seconds, which is the easiest.

Another example is to combine tasks with your preferences. A young man who needs to lose weight on a treadmill likes watching TV. He combines the treadmill with watching TV. He must exercise before watching TV. He can do what he likes and exercise at the same time.

There are also many ways to improve procrastination. As long as we know why we procrastinate, it is easy to improve it.

If you're depressed, it can make you procrastinate. If you need help, talk to a counselor.

Happy New Year!

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David Jonathan Wilson David Jonathan Wilson A total of 4011 people have been helped

Greetings.

Embrace me. There is no need to hurry.

Procrastination is a pervasive psychological phenomenon. It can manifest as a significant impediment, such as an inability to act on an important task due to fear of failure or concern about the quality of the outcome. Alternatively, it can take the form of a minor issue, such as a reluctance to complete minor tasks in a timely manner or the development of a procrastination mentality, exemplified by postponing tasks like preparing for an exam, establishing a regular sleep schedule, or making purchases. Procrastination is a ubiquitous phenomenon in daily life.

Consequently, procrastination can be defined as both a habit and a psychological phenomenon. However, in more severe cases, it can also manifest as self-denial, self-deprecation, and internal inferiority complexes. These symptoms require prompt correction through the modification of maladaptive habits and thought patterns.

To illustrate, consider the following example:

Many individuals who procrastinate do not initially perceive it as a problematic behavior. When they lack motivation to complete a task, they tend to provide themselves with justifications or pretexts to avoid it.

If one has a task to study and feels tired in the afternoon, one might decide to do it in the evening. However, one will subsequently identify other excuses to postpone the task until the deadline is imminent. It is only when there are no further excuses that one is compelled to complete the task under the pressure of time. This is undoubtedly a very detrimental effect, as it results in a lack of reasonable allocation and planning.

Secondly, an appointment is made with a friend to meet at 8 o'clock. However, upon checking the time, it is discovered that it is still early. As a result, other relaxing activities are undertaken prior to the appointment, which subsequently affects interpersonal relationships.

A review of the underlying causes of procrastination reveals that the primary factor is perfectionism, which leads individuals to avoid tasks they perceive as unattainable. This is followed by a lack of a well-defined plan and, finally, a tendency towards relaxation and dependence, which can manifest as laziness.

*Perfectionism: Due to an individual's personality or habits, the desire to achieve the desired results when undertaking tasks may lead to a fear of causing disappointment. For instance, if a teacher assigns homework, but the student is hesitant to complete it due to concerns about not doing it well, this may result in a lack of motivation to fulfil the task.

In the absence of a robust monitoring environment, individuals may find themselves unable to fulfill the commitments they have made regarding summer homework. Without such monitoring, the likelihood of completing the tasks initially set out may be significantly reduced by the end of the summer.

A slack mentality is one that lacks both supervision and self-motivation, leading the human mind to gravitate towards comfort.

Once the aforementioned information regarding procrastination psychology has been assimilated, a reasonable plan can be formulated based on one's own circumstances. This allows for a sense of autonomy and control over one's actions while still maintaining flexibility and adaptability.

Firstly, it is important to accept one's own imperfections. This can be likened to the process of writing an essay: if one sets out to write the perfect essay, it will be very difficult to complete at first, because one is unable to accept any flaws or failures in oneself, which can lead to internal pressure and a sense of obstruction.

Secondly, it is advisable to plan ahead in a realistic manner, in accordance with one's anticipated completion results. This approach facilitates the achievement of the planned schedule, while also fostering a sense of accomplishment in the completion of tasks and continued effort.

Those who are prone to procrastination or lazy behavior may find it beneficial to join a monitoring group. The popular practice of "setting goals" in one's social circle often entails the completion of specific tasks on a daily basis, with the involvement of external factors serving as a form of monitoring and motivation.

It is my sincere hope that this information will prove beneficial to you.

Best wishes for success. Keep up the good work.

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Phoebe Hughes Phoebe Hughes A total of 8382 people have been helped

Hello, I'd like to offer you a 360-degree hug.

It's fair to say that procrastination is something that affects us all to some extent. It's a strategy that we use to protect ourselves psychologically and it often stems from certain beliefs about life that we've held for a long time. Some people would rather face the painful consequences of procrastination than fail after trying hard but not achieving their goal. Some people even use procrastination as an alternative to making a choice.

There were originally a number of potential options for how to proceed, but as discussions continued, it became evident that there was no longer a viable alternative. The underlying causes of procrastination are complex and multifaceted, influenced by a range of psychological and social factors.

You might find it helpful to read a book called "The Psychology of Procrastination: Declaring War on Your Innate Behavior."

It's natural to procrastinate from time to time, but it's when procrastination starts to affect our work life that it can become a problem.

I'd like to share a few thoughts on how we might approach the issue of procrastination.

One approach could be to allow yourself to go with the flow of procrastination. This might mean not fighting procrastination, but rather going with it until you feel ready to get started.

Deferring is not about letting things slide, but rather about adjusting the deadline. For instance, if a report is due at 12 noon on Friday and it takes two hours to complete it and two hours to find the information, the latest start time would be 8 a.m.

Then you may wish to consider starting work on the report at 8 o'clock on Friday morning. Until then, you might find it helpful to ignore the report and not think about it.

Naturally, to accommodate procrastination, it is helpful to have an understanding of the time frame required to complete the task, your own capabilities in meeting that deadline, and the potential for unexpected challenges that might impact the timeline. For instance, if you are a teacher with a Friday teaching commitment, it is likely that you will need to work on the report due at 12:00 on Thursday night.

If this job requires the assistance of others, it would be wise to consider their schedules. In the early stages, it might be helpful to reserve some flexible time.

Secondly, you might like to consider breaking down the work into smaller, more manageable chunks. For instance, if it takes three days to write an article of 2,000 words, you could try writing at least 800 words a day, with some time set aside for revision. You might even find it helpful to break it down into 400 words in the morning and 400 words in the evening. This kind of decomposition makes each small goal very manageable, making it easier to start and finish, and our own resistance is also smaller.

Another approach is to use your body to reduce procrastination. When you are procrastinating, it may be helpful to take a moment to move your body, shift your thinking, and allow your brain and body to relax. This can help you to feel more ready to get back into action.

For instance, it might be helpful to keep your phone out of reach and to avoid placing items unrelated to work on your desk.

You might also consider speaking with a counselor to gain insight into the underlying causes of your procrastination.

It may also be the case that there is a certain relationship between procrastination and depression. If your depression is not being treated, you may find that you can only relieve it by yourself.

Procrastination may be a way of expressing your frustration with your family's disapproval. However, this approach may not be productive and could potentially lead to negative consequences.

I wonder if it might be possible to not treat depression. I think it is possible to not treat moderate depression.

It might be helpful to consider some self-help books on depression, such as "Depression Self-Healing Therapy," "Mr. Toad Goes to the Psychiatrist," "Depression's Insightful Cognitive Therapy," and "Good Food for Sadness: How to Overcome Depression on Your Own."

It might be helpful to speak with a counselor.

I am a psychological counselor who experiences a range of emotions, including periods of depression and moments of optimism. I have a deep appreciation for the world and its many wonders.

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Evan Evan A total of 8093 people have been helped

Hello, teacher!

Let's dive in and tackle these problems together! The problems you are currently facing are:

1. Procrastination

2. I'm excited to learn more about whether depression can be left untreated!

First, regarding the first problem you described, you are definitely not alone! The great thing about you is that once you start doing something, you will concentrate and do it very seriously, striving to do your best!

It proves that you are a very focused person, and you can do it!

It's clear you have high standards for yourself, and that's a great thing! But it might be holding you back from finishing this task.

You'll only take action when you have to get it done. And then you'll find that there's not enough time! You'll start to lose energy again, but that's OK. You'll just have to act sooner next time!

So it goes round and round, leading to a vicious cycle!

I've got a great tip for you! Why not try writing a daily planner?

Make your goals as specific and achievable as possible!

For example, instead of just saying "read a book," say "read a few pages of a book" and get started!

Make a list of all the amazing things you want to accomplish in a day, and check off each one as you complete it. Treat yourself to a little reward!

And there's more! You can also lower your expectations of yourself, accept your own imperfections sometimes, and as long as you take action, you should encourage and recognize yourself in a timely manner!

Sometimes we need to feel a sense of achievement when we do something, and this can really motivate us to act again next time!

When we take action, we will get better and better!

You said that you were diagnosed with moderate depression a year ago. I'm not sure if you were diagnosed in a professional institution, but either way, you're on the road to recovery!

I'm sure the family heard the doctor's advice, but perhaps they didn't know the possible consequences of depression?

If it is not diagnosed by a professional institution, then the result is open to question. The good news is that sometimes we just have some depressive moods, which are still different from depression in the traditional sense!

I'm in awe of you! I admire your strength for having made it this far, one step at a time.

The good news is that studies have now shown that mild to moderate depression can be improved or even cured through cognitive behavioral therapy! Severe depression requires a combination of medication and psychotherapy, but there is hope for those struggling with more severe forms of depression.

If you still feel bad, we highly recommend you seek professional psychological counseling, preferably cognitive behavioral therapy! There are so many types of psychological counseling out there, and we're excited for you to find the one that suits you best!

If going offline isn't convenient for you, no problem! You can also find what you're looking for online.

If you have the means, I highly recommend choosing face-to-face counseling! It's a great way to solve problems in a more effective and enjoyable way!

I'm so excited for you! I really hope you can soon emerge from the gloom and embrace the sunshine ☀️!

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Paul Reed Paul Reed A total of 6442 people have been helped

Hello. From your description, I can sense that you are experiencing a depression/im-over-30-years-old-and-ive-gone-through-a-cycle-of-internal-conflict-and-then-recovery-why-is-it-that-my-habit-is-to-blame-myself-2627.html" target="_blank">conflict and a sense of powerlessness.

As a hospital psychologist, I would like to offer my understanding from a psychological perspective.

A depressed state can have an impact on our thinking, making it more difficult to concentrate, and may also cause low mood, a low sense of self-worth, and weak motivation. These symptoms are related to your description of a depressed state in the past and also to your procrastination. It is often the case that we can perceive our own state and want to change it, but a depressed state can affect our motivation. So your procrastination is also a sense of powerlessness that you feel yourself. This can lead to feelings of self-blame, guilt, and the feeling that you are not trying hard or being positive enough, which may also aggravate your symptoms.

How might you approach this?

I hope you will consider going to the hospital again to assess your condition. In my experience, mild depression can often be treated with psychotherapy and self-adjustment. For moderate depression, a combination of medication and psychotherapy can be helpful. In severe cases, especially when accompanied by thoughts of self-harm or suicide, hospitalization and medication, along with psychotherapy, can be necessary.

From your description, it seems that you are trying to adjust yourself, but there may be aspects that you are struggling to deal with on your own due to your own limitations, including your fixed patterns. It's understandable that every time you set a goal and procrastinate to deal with it, you feel self-blame and guilt. This is a fixed cycle that requires professional intervention, and it can be challenging to break out of it on your own. Psychotherapy with a professional therapist of your choice could be a helpful way to make some adjustments on your own. For example, you might benefit from understanding your own personality traits and the unconscious influences behind your depression.

Could it be an attachment relationship? Or perhaps a sense of security?

It might also be helpful to consider whether there is a tendency towards self-deprecation and an inability to express emotions. All of this could be beneficial to explore in therapy. By identifying the root cause, it may be possible to adjust one's state and make fundamental changes to oneself.

Thank you for taking the initiative to seek help on this platform today. By doing so, you have taken the first step towards gaining support and assistance from a diverse range of individuals. This is an important first step towards your inner growth. The world and I love you, and it is essential to learn to love yourself too. Depression is a complex condition that requires a multifaceted approach to understand, accept and overcome. I am here to support you with my professional expertise. Let's embark on this journey together.

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Quintilla Quintilla A total of 413 people have been helped

Hello, I'm Gu Daoxi, also known as Fengshou Skinny Donkey!

Guess what? Many people have procrastination disorder! And it's totally normal. We all have different levels of importance attached to our goals and varying levels of fear of action. And that's okay! The reasons may be:

1. Unclear goals and not knowing where to start are the first hurdles to overcome!

2. The goal is so important that you'll want to eliminate all distractions to focus on it!

3. Strive for perfection and fear failure. In "The Courage to Be Disliked," a girl with blushing syndrome is afraid to confess her feelings to the object of her affection, perhaps fearing rejection. But if I didn't have blushing syndrome, I would confess my feelings! That would give me an excuse to procrastinate, and who doesn't love procrastination?

4. It's true that it can be challenging to work hard, but it's also an amazing opportunity to push yourself and grow! Many people tend to avoid hard work, but there's so much to be gained from it.

5. The last minute always gives you a feeling that you still have time! I also feel that it's still early in the morning when I leave for the high-speed train, so I get to rush all the way to the station to avoid missing it.

Depression itself can cause negative and pessimistic emotions, but you can absolutely muster the interest to do things!

Knowing where we are can give us the courage to change—and it's an exciting journey! The questioner can try:

1. Start with the end in mind! Set a goal and work backwards to determine the progress required at each stage.

2. Determine the importance of the goal, pay enough attention to it, and you will be able to eliminate external distractions. The last minute to catch the high-speed train is valuable because it is important!

3. Striving for perfection is a great goal to have, but don't forget to take action! As mentioned in "The Courage to Be Disliked," you must first accept your 60 points before you can work towards 100.

And the same goes for actions! While actions may not be 100 points, inaction is definitely 0.

4. Everyone slacks off at times, and that's okay! Allowing yourself to slack off occasionally can actually help you adjust your state and face your goals better without being too stressed.

5. Don't wait until the last minute! Start earlier and leave time for revision.

6. You've got to develop a regular routine! It'll make you more positive!

7. Pomodoro Technique: You can do it! Focus on your goal for half an hour at a time, and balance this with rest and focus.

8. Eliminate distractions! For example, if you want to read a book but keep wanting to watch TV, try this simple trick:

It's amazing what a little change in your environment can do to help you focus on your goal! Try putting the remote control out of reach and the book within easy reach. You'll be amazed at how much more you can concentrate on what you really want to do!

Wishing you the very best!

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Blake Julianne Cook Blake Julianne Cook A total of 8718 people have been helped

It is still important to seek treatment for anxiety-moderate-depression-what-if-im-afraid-of-the-people-around-me-22953.html" target="_blank">moderate depression. It is important to note that the experience of depression can vary from person to person. While some individuals may experience insomnia, loss of motivation, sadness, or even self-injurious behavior, this is not a comprehensive list of symptoms. Therefore, the absence of these or other symptoms does not necessarily indicate that one is not experiencing a serious illness and may benefit from treatment.

It's important to remember that if something doesn't directly affect your life, it doesn't mean it's not worth addressing. Even small issues can add up over time.

In addition to self-soothing, you might consider trying behavior therapy, which could be a helpful approach for your situation. It seems that you are not yet in a situation where you are completely unable to handle your work or where it has a significant impact. As long as you can solve the state of procrastination itself, you might be able to devote yourself to your work.

It is possible that the current procrastination problem is not necessarily caused by depression, but it may still have some impact because the body will have a kind of self-suggestion. It may simply be that there is a certain degree of inertia at work, and when you think of your previous diagnosis of moderate depression, you may associate the two problems and suspect that it is okay to procrastinate a little, that it is a normal phenomenon of depression. Once a person has a habit in their behavior, it may become more difficult to change, and coupled with the inertia of the person, procrastination may become more and more serious.

It is possible that procrastination may affect work, which could potentially lead to feelings of anxiety and a sense of being unable to adjust one's state. There is also a possibility that procrastination may be attributed to depression, and that one may feel powerless to change the situation. This vicious cycle may also intensify unknowingly.

We can now suggest that these two issues may be interrelated. Procrastination may be seen as an undesirable state and habit of the current work. Adjusting your state with a reward and punishment system, your career may be seen as a case study for teachers, who may have insights into operating effectively, particularly when shifting the goal from students to oneself.

It would be beneficial to continue addressing the issue of depression. If you feel that it is not affecting your work or life, and you do not require treatment, you may wish to consider having regular check-ups, provided that your daily routine is satisfactory.

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Marigold Perez Marigold Perez A total of 8827 people have been helped

Hello.

Here's the advice you need:

Procrastination is your body's way of protesting. You may not know what it's protesting about, but I can help you figure it out. For example, you're not satisfied with your current work or your current state of life. You want to make a change.

You're asking this question because you want to make a change.

Once you start, you will want to do your best and run out of time. You will procrastinate, which will inevitably lead to a lack of time, even if you are not striving to do your best.

You can calm your mind once you start. It has to do with the human brain.

The brain is divided into a rational brain and an emotional brain. The emotional brain likes comfort and will find all kinds of reasons not to start something. However, once it starts, the rational brain will take over and start thinking about how to get it done.

Do something when you feel something. This is the best way to reduce the time when your emotional brain dominates and ignores its own voice. You cannot ignore your emotions. If you do, you will become like a robot.

Take the time to meditate, starting with five minutes a day, and dedicate time every day to calming your emotions.

Your heart is at ease at home. Your emotional brain is having a tantrum.

What message does it want to convey to you? Calm down. Ask yourself what your heart is telling you. Then make small changes to settle your soul.

I wish the original poster happiness.

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Edwina Edwina A total of 4312 people have been helped

Dear teacher, My name is Duo Duo Lian, and I'm excited to be able to offer you some support!

I'm thrilled to answer your questions! This topic is also a concern for most people. One thing could have been solved earlier, but it wasn't done until the last minute. You are a teacher, and you also understand that students will do the same thing because they lack internal motivation—but you can help them!

Procrastination is also a lack of motivation. But there's no need to worry! You can easily improve your internal motivation with a little help from external forces. We are easily influenced by others, especially the recognition of those around us, which can internalize ourselves. The support of others can also enhance a sense of value.

As a teacher, you have the incredible opportunity to make a real impact on students' lives. You get to be a part of their journey, guiding them through the challenges and celebrating their triumphs. You'll also get to interact with a diverse range of people, which is a wonderful chance to learn and grow. Today's teachers are in high demand, and it's an exciting time to be in the profession. You'll have the chance to hone your skills and expand your knowledge, becoming a well-rounded and knowledgeable educator.

If you've ever been depressed, you'll know how it feels to attack yourself. It's like you're constantly fighting a losing battle. But here's the good news: you can win this war! All you have to do is start accepting your imperfections and being your true self. Once you do that, you'll feel like a new person. You'll have more motivation than ever before, and you'll be able to tackle any task with ease. So go ahead, be your best self!

You are able to recognize your procrastination and also have the determination to change. However, it still has an impact on your work. Behavior is not the problem. You can explore yourself, whether you believe in yourself, and see what you can achieve! You were once proud of yourself for being able to become a teacher. You also have tenacity and have overcome many fears. Not everyone can confidently stand on the podium, so give yourself more affirmation!

Love yourself, empower yourself, young you, and dare to admit your own shortcomings. You are on the road to change! Give yourself some time, accept that you can't do it for the time being, and remember that everyone is lazy.

You will absolutely break through and move forward courageously!

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Ferdinand Ferdinand A total of 1032 people have been helped

This is an excellent question.

I have conducted a thorough examination of the question.

The issue of procrastination is prevalent to varying degrees among a significant proportion of the population.

The following analysis and suggestions are offered for consideration:

The emotional underpinnings of the procrastination habit

As the questioner indicated, procrastination is a common phenomenon, manifesting in various contexts, including work, reading, and studying. Despite recognizing the necessity of completing tasks, there is often a tendency to postpone them in favor of leisure activities.

This is the typical emotional experience associated with both conflict and self-blame in individuals who engage in habitual procrastination.

Procrastination can be understood as a form of psychological conflict. The conflict itself can consume a significant amount of energy, leading to feelings of self-blame.

As the questioner states, "When there is little time remaining, I ultimately compel myself to commence the task at hand."

Given the imminent deadline, the feelings of indecision receded, giving way to anger and self-blame. This prompted the decision to force oneself to work or study.

Accordingly, the initial recommendation is for the questioner to commence by enhancing their self-awareness of the self-doubt and self-blame, in order to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, accept themselves, and ultimately facilitate change.

The longer a decision is delayed, the greater the cognitive burden that is incurred.

As the questioner describes, the underlying motivation for this behavior is a desire to be the best. When confronted with the realization that there is not enough time to achieve this goal, individuals experience feelings of remorse and question their decision to delay the task.

Individuals who habitually procrastinate often strive for perfection, desire to undertake an excessive number of tasks, and experience a considerable psychological burden.

Indeed, as a consequence of their tendency to procrastinate and their inability to adequately address the numerous tasks at hand, they frequently conclude that they have reached an impasse and cease their efforts.

Nevertheless, the consequence of relinquishing one's efforts is a sense of frustration, which exacerbates feelings of self-doubt and intensifies the psychological burden.

It is therefore recommended that the questioner alter their perception, gradually ameliorate their psychological issues, including a lack of self-confidence, an inclination towards perfectionism, and an excessive preoccupation with concerns, and endeavour to enhance their intrinsic motivation to avoid procrastination.

Does depression manifest as procrastination symptoms?

In general, depressive disorders do not manifest in a delayed manner.

Procrastination is a consequence of behavioral and psychological disorders.

Depression is typified by a pervasive sense of low mood, which may be accompanied by prominent manifestations of the "three lows": low mood, loss of interest, and lack of pleasure. It is not uncommon for individuals to lose interest or experience a reduction in interest in activities or pursuits that they previously enjoyed, and to find pleasure in fewer things.

The situation described by the questioner before and after procrastination does not align with the characteristics of the "three lows."

Nevertheless, it is advised that the individual in question maintain vigilance regarding their emotional state and pursue professional medical attention or consultation at the earliest opportunity should they exhibit indications of depression.

It is my hope that the aforementioned information will prove to be of some assistance to you.

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Michael Carter Michael Carter A total of 9835 people have been helped

What is the underlying cause of the conflict between procrastination and the desire to complete tasks in a timely manner? Is there a correlation between these two behaviors and depression?

The tendency to procrastinate while striving for excellence may be attributed to an internal conflict between two distinct aspects of the self: one that evokes a playful, carefree attitude and another that exudes a sense of urgency and responsibility.

In other words, it is possible that sufficient leisure time has not been allotted in the past, but the current directive is to study and avoid laziness, and to complete tasks.

Let us consider the following scenario: when one was a child, did not the anticipation of a holiday bring a sense of relief, allowing for the enjoyment of leisure activities?

However, the homework assigned by the teacher for the holidays has not been completed, and the individual's parents are persistently requesting that the individual finish their homework, read, study, and refrain from engaging in leisure activities for several days, even during the vacation period.

Consequently, the individual in question becomes resistant and unwilling to read or complete their homework until the day before the commencement of the academic year, at which point they are compelled to stay up late to catch up on their work.

The greater the frequency and intensity of the request, the greater the resistance will be.

Subsequently, the individual who made the request internalizes it as their own identity.

This results in a state of internal conflict, wherein two opposing voices exist within the individual. One voice urges the individual to act with haste, while the other encourages procrastination.

This internal conflict may also be a significant contributing factor to the development of depressive symptoms.

1. Excessive self-control may result in procrastination.

The subject is a 27-year-old female teacher.

The precise point at which this behavior commenced is unclear, but it has been a consistent feature of my conduct for as long as I can recall. Despite being aware that I am required to complete tasks, I am invariably drawn to pursuits that offer a more immediate gratification. However, when confronted with imminent deadlines, I am compelled to initiate the requisite actions.

Despite reaching the age of 27, you may still exhibit the behaviour of a child.

This aspect of the individual's personality may have been suppressed during their formative years, resulting in an inherent reluctance to relinquish it.

Concurrently, an internalized adult, potentially a stern nurturer, exists alongside the aforementioned tendencies.

The internalized adult is responsible and feels obligated, aware that the task at hand cannot be avoided and must be completed.

Therefore, at the eleventh hour, one will exert oneself to complete tasks.

2. The stern self strives for perfection, while the playful child continues to procrastinate.

Once he begins working, he will focus intently and exert a great deal of effort, striving to achieve the highest possible level of performance. Because he aspires to excel, he will experience feelings of remorse when he realizes that there is not sufficient time, and he will question why he did not commence working at an earlier point in time.

Upon completion of a task, I tend to relax and refrain from engaging in further activities, which ultimately leads to procrastination. This cyclical pattern persists.

The precise cause of this phenomenon is unclear.

You became a teacher, a profession that inherently encourages motivation.

A rigorous self-regulatory style may have contributed to your success and enhanced your abilities.

Concurrently, one is expected to perform to the best of one's abilities and pursue excellence.

The pursuit of perfection has become a significant source of stress. Upon completion of a task, the fatigue and tension associated with this stress may be the primary factor influencing a lack of motivation to engage in further tasks.

Consequently, I resumed procrastination, and the cycle resumed.

3. The pursuit of control and self-control often results in confrontation with procrastination, which in turn can trigger long-term self-struggle and depression.

Is there a correlation between this condition and depression? A diagnosis of moderate depression was rendered a year ago, yet my family did not accept it, and no treatment has been undertaken since. During this period, I have relied on self-relieving techniques.

However, I have been experiencing a persistently negative affect. I am uncertain as to whether I would benefit from further treatment, and I am curious as to what the potential consequences of not pursuing treatment might be.

Depression is the consequence of an internal depletion resulting from prolonged self-struggle.

The primary characteristics of depression are threefold: a low mood, slow thinking, and slow action.

Depression is the result, and procrastination can be considered a manifestation or a contributing factor.

In other words, individuals experiencing depression may exhibit a lack of motivation and interest in engaging in activities when they are not in a positive emotional state, exhibiting a lack of responsiveness and reduced energy levels.

The continual struggle between the desire to avoid tasks and the obligation to complete them can be a significant source of mental fatigue and may ultimately contribute to the development of depressive symptoms.

To resolve procrastination and depression, it is first necessary to resolve the internal conflict.

One must identify the significance of one's actions and not allow external influences to dictate one's behavior. An individual with a robust sense of responsibility can adopt a more lenient approach towards themselves.

It is possible to perform a task well, and if one is less critical of one's own work, one will be more willing to work.

In the absence of psychological pressure, procrastination is unlikely to occur.

Should the aforementioned steps be undertaken and no internal conflict be present, a reduction in depressive symptoms may be observed.

Given the moderate nature of your depression and its continued impact on your life and work, it is imperative that you seek active and professional psychological treatment.

It is my hope that the aforementioned responses will prove beneficial to you.

I am a licensed psychologist, Yan Guilai. It is my hope that you will soon be able to emerge from your distress.

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Gail Gail A total of 958 people have been helped

Hello, landlord! I'm smiling because I'm happy to help!

I totally get where you're coming from with your description. I think procrastination is actually pretty common in real life. It's just that the degree to which you procrastinate varies from person to person.

It's okay to put things off until the last minute! Generally speaking, people who do this will feel fine about it because they'll get things done in the end, even if they're not done very well. But these folks may not see this as a problem, so they won't feel a big imbalance or a sense of loss.

Procrastination is something that many of us struggle with, but it's totally normal! You can take your time to adjust your current state. Remember, changing procrastination habits takes time and energy.

So, just take your time, my friend. The reason for your procrastination may be perfectionism. For example, no matter when you do something, you will still feel that you can't do your best.

So, no matter when you do it, you'll always feel in your heart that you can't do your best, which is totally normal!

Procrastination and depression are related, but they're not directly connected. They just influence each other sometimes.

Plus, it's totally normal to feel down sometimes. Many people experience depression to varying degrees throughout their lives. So, there's no need to worry if you're feeling a bit low right now.

I've also put together a few helpful tips to make your current situation a little easier to handle. I really hope they'll be useful for you!

(1) Try to adjust your current state of mind more. You can look at some problems more optimistically, without doubting your past self too much. Your past self has already tried so hard! Just let go of your past self and be kind to yourself.

(2) Give yourself a break! It's okay to accept that you haven't done everything perfectly. We all make mistakes, and that's totally normal. Don't be too hard on yourself.

(3) You can set certain rules to help you avoid procrastinating too much. Instead, you can learn to be in control of your procrastination, rather than letting it control you.

(4) When you're not feeling well, it's okay to take a little time for yourself. You can chat with a friend, go for a walk, listen to music, or write in your diary. It's good to let your emotions out, even if it feels like you can't.

(5) Try to distract yourself from the present moment. You can do what you want to do, and don't let the negative environment get to you. Instead, do something you enjoy to make yourself feel better.

The world and I love you so much!

Wishing you all the best!

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Julianna Fernandez Julianna Fernandez A total of 1879 people have been helped

Hello, I'm Qu Huidong, a counselor who uses images to help people.

It's hard to see that you've been coping on your own since your family didn't believe you when you told them a year ago that you had depression.

Your feelings are your own, and you need to take responsibility for feeling better!

If you don't get treatment, you'll keep struggling. You've been carrying the stress alone, trapped in a state of depression, blaming yourself. You've survived for a year since the day you were diagnosed, but this year has not been comfortable. The days before the diagnosis were not good, otherwise you would not have gone for it.

Without family and professional help, it's hard to keep going alone. Just like a spring, you need support to stay at ease!

Procrastination is a symptom of depression. It's telling you that you're ill and need treatment.

When you're procrastinating, try to stop.

You can do it. Recognize your abilities and thank yourself for them.

These are your resources. Focus on them and you'll get things done more efficiently.

We often think we don't have enough time, but we spend too much time worrying to remember what we've already done.

You will feel guilty for letting down after doing something. This is our body's way of healing. If you don't rest, you will feel tired. Rest and enjoy the relaxation. You will feel better and be able to do things again.

Start treatment and intervention as soon as possible. Depression means we need to take care of ourselves!

Best wishes!

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Comments

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Ava Jackson A learned person's mind is a laboratory where experiments with different knowledge concepts are constantly underway.

I can relate to your struggle with procrastination and the cycle it creates. It sounds like you're really hard on yourself when you finally do start working, only to fall back into the same pattern once you're done. It's a tough cycle to break.

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Edmond Anderson Teachers are the pillars that uphold the edifice of education.

It seems like you're dealing with quite a bit more than just procrastination. The diagnosis of moderate depression a year ago might be closely linked to what you're experiencing now. Depression can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming.

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Brant Davis It is easier to find men who will volunteer to die, than to find those who are willing to endure pain with patience.

Your willingness to strive for your best when you do get started is admirable. However, it's important to address the underlying issues that may be causing this behavior. Seeking professional help could provide you with strategies to manage both the procrastination and depression effectively.

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Tadeo Miller Truth and honesty are the twin pillars of a noble life.

Family support can play a crucial role in recovery, but their disbelief shouldn't stop you from getting the help you need. If you continue without treatment, the symptoms of depression might worsen, impacting your life and relationships even more.

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Allison Thomas The passion of a teacher for the subject matter is a magnet that attracts students to learn.

The fact that you recognize these patterns and are questioning them shows strength. It's okay to seek help, and doing so can lead to significant improvements in your quality of life. Maybe starting with a therapist who understands what you're going through would be beneficial.

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