One simple tool for combatting depression in general and suicidal thoughts in particular is to rehearse good things in life. Not just great big good things, like success in one’s career, but little tiny ones too.
It was homework from Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy weeks and weeks ago to begin my own list, but I have been super busy being back at work. Well, I’m finally getting to it. So, here’s my very partial list, and in no particular order.
Kissing Anita, my wife; or just hearing her breathing beside me
Mindfully sipping my coffee
Listening to music
Phone calls and video chats with friends and family
Reading philosophy on my front porch
Running, especially with a partner
Spotting an interesting bird at my feeders and on walks
Fishing of all sorts (Of course!)
Teaching and time with students
The cats sitting on my lap
Crawling under the covers when I’m sleepy
Travel
Eating out at restaurants
Literary fiction
Helping people
Cutting the grass
Watching TV with Anita
Grocery shopping with my daughters Saima or Moon
Hot water on my shoulders and head in the shower
Bonfires in our backyard