Motivation and Mental Health

(read time: 3 min)

Motivation and mental health are intrinsically linked.  Perhaps with the exception of a manic episode, they generally move up and down together.  Most common afflictions (anxiety, sadness, addiction, loneliness, regret, heartache), attack our motivation to do the things we feel we should be doing.  The advice to remedy them usually boils down to the same usual suspects: exercise, eat healthy, socialize, get enough sleep, limit screen time, cut down on drinking, get a hobby, and when all else fails “seek professional help.”  While generally accurate, for someone in an entrenched funk, it’s like telling them to dig the Panama Canal with a shovel.  An aspiration so out of reach it feels like mockery.

At least part of the trick to getting un-funked is to capture a bit of that lost motivation.  Pharmacologists have understood this for decades, creating SSRIs and other meds to harness dopamine and other neurotransmitters to get us going.  When we’re not doing well motivation is ephemeral but often not absent.  It briefly sparks, and if not used immediately, it flickers out.

Next time you feel the spark, try harnessing it immediately.  Even during depression, an idea to act on something positive can rise up suddenly, faster than our brain can muster its familiar objections (it’s hopeless, I’ll never finish, I’m too tired, I suck at that, I’ll fail).  Go ahead and do that thing right away as there’s little chance this flicker of motivation will return any time soon.  I’m not talking about running a 5k, washing your windows, or sending out a resume (though do jump on those flickers if you’re feeling them).  It can start with taking a shower, texting someone you like, folding your clothes, completing a work email or other task.  You may find motivation to be strong right away, then taper down even when you begin the task, but then rise again after you get in a rhythm only to fade again during the next 10 to 90 minutes.  This is normal; it’s how our brains work.  

During therapy, I can help you harness your motivation, no matter how low or fragile it may be, to get through the next step.  If you aren’t ready for any steps and need time to rest and build yourself back up first, I’m here for that too.