How to Deal with Depression in Isolation: Coping with Exhaustion, Loneliness, and Change

How do you deal with depression in isolation?

In this powerful conversation, Hobbs shares how the pandemic amplified his depression, turning simple check-ins like “how are you?” into impossibly complicated questions. He describes the exhaustion of constant change, the loneliness of lost routines, and the mood swings that can shift within hours.

Through honesty and vulnerability, Hobbs reveals the coping tools that keep him afloat — community, exercise, medication, and the support of hearing others’ stories. His words remind us that while depression lies and isolation magnifies it, connection and self-care can help us find steadier ground.

If you’ve ever wondered how to deal with depression when you’re exhausted or alone, Hobbs’ story offers comfort and validation.

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why “How are you?” feels more complicated during a pandemic
• Living with depression when moods shift multiple times a day
• The impact of isolation and lost routines on mental health
• Physical signs of depression and stress (clenched jaw, exhaustion)
• Why exhaustion is a universal experience during times of change
• Coping tools: exercise, community, and medication
• Fighting stigma around men and antidepressants
• Depression’s inner voice vs. your true self
• Building a “depression toolbox” before a crisis hits
• The importance of speaking up, listening up, and connection

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro — revisiting an archived conversation
 01:00 Why “how are you?” feels so different during the pandemic
 02:30 Hobbs on mood swings: “I can only tell you how I feel right now”
 04:10 The role of news, negativity, and triggers in daily mood shifts
 05:40 Isolation and the loss of community/exercise routines
 07:40 Exhaustion and sleeping up to 18 hours at a time
 09:50 Recognizing depression’s impact on body and mind
 11:00 Normalizing brain fog and fatigue in uncertain times
 12:15 Why hearing others’ stories builds connection and hope
 14:00 Depression’s inner voice vs. reality — battling absolutes (“always,” “never”)
 15:40 Hobbs on the “depression toolbox” — medication, exercise, community
 17:30 Breaking stigma: why men also need medication and support
 18:50 Closing reflections: self-care, connection, and the value of every listener

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