Post-Graduation Depression

I guess when I prepare for things like PGD (Post-Graduation Depression), it doesn't happen. Maybe not right now, maybe never... but I was really prepared! I set up a therapy appointment this week and everything in great anticipation of depression. Oh well. At least I actually prepared for it. I'm doing very well. I am really glad that graduation wasn't a "letdown" because I honestly had no thoughts or expectations about it. So how do you, my friend, prevent a Post-__fill_in_the_blank_ Depression? Here are a list of preventative factors that have successfully warded off the blues:

1. A fresh new baby to cuddle. That just makes everything better (as long as I can give it back).
2. Planning to rest and take lots of naps. I took a 3.5 hour nap after graduation.
3. Instead of a monsterous vacation, I took a couple days, did fun things, but now I'm back in a normal routine. Routines make me feel better.
4. Chocolate Chip Cookies from Erica Emmons. De-lish.
5. Exercising. Running, walking, skateboarding, dancing, etc.
6. Focusing on the moment and realizing what I have to be grateful for. See this spectacular blog.
7. Picking up the new hobby of playing the piano. I love it. And getting back into photography. Another really great hobby.
8. Family & Friends- laughter, talks, fun. I love the people God has given me in my life. They are extraordinary. Plain and simple. 
9. Going to Richmond to see the Picasso exhibit. Experiencing a sense of awe and wonder outside of myself is always a good preventative factor.
10. Finding a new cause-I'm currently looking at volunteering at CHKD.

So there you have it. If you are post-something and feeling a depression, find the things that bring you back to feeling most like yourself. Those are my things.