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For many, maintaining personal hygiene is a routine part of life. Showering, grooming, and brushing teeth are tasks performed without much thought. People generally keep up with their appearances, changing clothes regularly and ensuring they look presentable. However, for those grappling with mental health challenges such as depression, these simple tasks can become daunting.
As someone who deals with bipolar disorder, anxiety, and PTSD, I often find myself struggling with basic self-care. Today, for instance, I haven’t bathed in four days. My shirt has a distinct odor reminiscent of a bustling deli, and my toothbrush remains packed away from a recent trip. I lack the energy to even change my clothes.
I’m not proud of this situation, and I suspect that no one facing similar challenges would be either. It’s a reality that many of us with mental health disorders experience but seldom discuss. I rarely mention to my therapist that I’m having difficulty with hygiene, yet it is undeniably linked to my condition.
According to a piece on Healthline, many individuals find it challenging to perform basic hygiene tasks when depressed. This includes activities like showering, washing hands, and brushing teeth. Melissa A. Jones, a clinical psychologist from Indiana, notes that this struggle is largely due to a lack of energy and motivation.
Clinical psychologist Carla Manly elaborates, stating that clients often describe their depression as a “constant gray cloud” or a heavy weight keeping them from even getting out of bed. For those suffering from major depression, everyday actions can feel monumental.
When I am in a low state, I often feel overwhelmed and drained, as if I am tirelessly treading water. The very idea of taking a shower can feel unbearable. The physical discomfort that comes with mental illness can deter me from both movement and self-care. Showers can feel painful, and apathy can make it seem like nothing matters.
To cope, I often hide behind oversized clothing. I wear a mask to guard against COVID and to mask my breath, while a hat shields my unkempt hair from view. I become a master of disguise.
You might wonder why it wouldn’t be easier to just take care of myself. The truth is, depression doesn’t follow logic. The thought patterns associated with mental illness are often irrational, making it hard to engage in even the simplest self-care tasks. I push through when I can, knowing that eventually, I will shower, change clothes, and brush my hair and teeth. I have been here before and have always made it through, thanks to the support of friends, family, and my mental health professionals who recognize when I am struggling even if I don’t voice it.
If you find yourself facing similar challenges today — perhaps your hair is unruly and you haven’t brushed your teeth — know that you are not a bad person. You are not lazy or crazy. You are experiencing a struggle that is very real. There is help available, and with time, self-care practices, medication, or therapy, you can navigate through it. Just reach out for support.
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Some probable search queries that may interest you include:
- How to maintain hygiene during depression
- Tips for self-care with mental illness
- Signs of depression affecting daily life
- Coping strategies for mental health
- Resources for mental health support
In summary, mental illness can significantly impact hygiene and self-care routines. It is essential to understand that struggling with these tasks does not reflect one’s character. Seeking support and understanding the nature of mental health challenges can lead to better coping strategies.