Gardening Has Become My Therapy

Last year, I decided to grow my own food and began watching gardening videos on YouTube. In March, I started setting up a raised bed and planted a couple of tomato plants in the front. My garden grew from there.

I must have felt something, because the depressive bouts had become less intense and didn't last quite as long. I also found my place of peace.

Watching the garden grow as I heal

I gardened through the winter and expanded it this spring. I have fruit trees, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries. My tomatoes look beautiful. My cucumbers are gorgeous. While they grow, so do I. My depression, on the other hand, has not.

I've heard that being in nature is as good as an antidepressant, or better. It may not be the case for everyone, but it is for me. My depression is a lot more manageable, the suicidal ideation is not present, and I laugh again.

Cultivating long-term mental heath accountability

The best part is that I'm not currently on any psychiatric medications. However, my doctor and I are going to carefully monitor the situation because depression has a way of sneaking up on me.

This all may sound very simple, but the journey never was. Many parts make up the tapestry. I donate some of what I grow, still watch YouTube videos on gardening, attend the classes I can, and I'm part of a community of gardeners. I have come to realize that community is also vital for my mental health.

A message for anyone trapped in the darkness

So, I encourage all of you to find an activity that brings you joy, even if it's done in the backyard. Find a community that loves what you love. It just might help you fight this black hole called depression.