Unlocking Inner Peace. How Stoicism Can Help You Thrive Through Aging, ADHD, and Depression

Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that has gained popularity in recent years as a practical way of living life with greater inner peace, resilience, and self-control. It emphasizes the importance of accepting what is outside of our control and focusing on what we can control, such as our thoughts and actions. While stoicism can benefit anyone, it can be particularly helpful for individuals who struggle with age-related challenges, ADHD, and depression. In this article, we’ll explore the connection between stoicism and these conditions, provide examples of how stoicism can help, and offer an action checklist to assist in using stoicism to cope with these challenges.

Stoicism and Aging As we age, we face physical, emotional, and social changes that can be difficult to navigate. Stoicism offers several practices that can help us maintain a sense of purpose and meaning as we age. For example:

Focus on what you can control: As we age, our bodies and minds may not function as they once did. Rather than dwelling on what we can’t do, we can focus on what we can do. For example, we can focus on staying active and healthy, maintaining relationships, and pursuing hobbies and interests that bring us joy.

Practice gratitude: Gratitude is an essential practice for stoics. As we age, it can be easy to focus on what we’ve lost or what we don’t have. Practicing gratitude can help us cultivate a more positive outlook on life. For example, we can focus on the good things we still have in our lives, such as our health, relationships, and the beauty of the world around us.

Embrace the present moment: Stoicism emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment. As we age, we may be tempted to dwell on the past or worry about the future. Instead, we can focus on the present moment and find joy in the small things in life. For example, we can savor a cup of tea, enjoy a beautiful sunset, or take pleasure in a good book.

Stoicism and ADHD ADHD can make it difficult to focus, stay organized, and control impulses. Stoicism offers several practices that can help individuals with ADHD manage their symptoms and live a more fulfilling life. For example:

Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware of the present moment. It can help individuals with ADHD stay focused and calm. For example, we can practice mindfulness meditation, where we focus on our breath and bring our attention back to the breath whenever our mind wanders.

Accept what you can’t control: Individuals with ADHD may feel frustrated by their symptoms and the impact they have on their lives. Stoicism emphasizes the importance of accepting what we can’t control. For example, we can’t control our symptoms, but we can control how we respond to them.

Set realistic goals: Individuals with ADHD may struggle with setting and achieving goals. Stoicism emphasizes setting realistic goals that are within our control. For example, we can set a goal to complete one task at a time and celebrate our accomplishments along the way.

Stoicism and Depression Depression can make it difficult to find joy in life and maintain a positive outlook. Stoicism offers several practices that can help individuals with depression cope with their symptoms and live a more meaningful life. For example:

Practice gratitude: Gratitude is an essential practice for stoics, and it can help individuals with depression cultivate a more positive outlook on life. For example, we can focus on the good things we have in our lives, even when we don’t feel like it.

Focus on what you can control: Depression can make individuals feel helpless and out of control. Stoicism emphasizes the importance of focusing on what we can control,such as our thoughts and actions. For example, we can focus on taking small steps each day to improve our mood, such as exercising, practicing self-care, or spending time in nature.

Embrace negative emotions: Stoicism teaches us to embrace negative emotions, rather than avoid or suppress them. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with depression, who may feel overwhelmed by their emotions. For example, we can acknowledge our feelings of sadness or despair and explore them with curiosity and compassion.

Action Checklist for Using Stoicism to Help with ADHD and Depression

Practice mindfulness: Set aside time each day to practice mindfulness meditation or engage in other mindfulness practices, such as mindful breathing or mindful walking.

Embrace gratitude: Start a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re grateful for each day, no matter how small.

Focus on what you can control: Make a list of things that are within your control, such as your thoughts, actions, and emotions. Set goals that are realistic and achievable.

Embrace negative emotions: When you experience negative emotions, take a moment to acknowledge them and explore them with curiosity and compassion.

Practice self-compassion: Be kind and compassionate to yourself, especially when you’re struggling with ADHD or depression. Remember that these conditions are not a reflection of your worth as a person.

Stoicism can be a valuable tool for individuals who are facing age-related challenges, ADHD, and depression. By focusing on what we can control, practicing gratitude, and embracing negative emotions, we can cultivate inner peace, resilience, and self-control. Use the action checklist above to start incorporating stoicism into your daily life and experience the benefits for yourself.