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Coping with depression can be tough, much less recovering from it. But former California governor and all round great guy Arnold Schwarzenegger has some inspiring advice for anyone in that situation.
On the /r/bodybuilding subreddit, which Arnie frequents, a user called u/0770059834333178 (but more easily known as Ali from Quebec, Canada) had posted a message asking for some inspiration from the Terminator.
“I know this is pandering but, I've been depressed for months and haven't hit the gym during that time,” he wrote.
“Mr. Schwarzenegger, can you please tell me to get off my lazy ass and hit the gym? I swear to everything I hold dear that I will snap out of it and go.”
Arnie did indeed reply to the self-professed fan, but instead of a telling off, he offered some kind words of advice.
“I’m not going to be that hard on you,” he said. “Please don’t be that hard on yourself. We all go through challenges, we all go through failure. Sometimes life is a workout. But the key thing is you get up. Just move a little. Roll out of bed and do some pushups or go for a walk. Just do something. One step at a time, I hope you feel better and get back to the gym. But don’t beat yourself up, because that’s just useless talk. It doesn’t get you closer to the gym. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. Good luck.”
Ali responded that he “jumped out of bed” when he received the notification. Arnie even checked up on him the following day, with Ali revealing he did indeed hit the gym, having been uplifted by the motivational message.
Other Reddit users were impressed by Arnie’s commitment. “The fact that you checked back in on this person makes you an amazing mentor to those who aspire to change the world the way you have,” said one. “Thank you, Mr Schwarzenegger.”
Arnie also later posted a video response, saying he was glad Ali had enjoyed his reply and was doing better now. “Hasta la vista,” he also signed off, of course.
It just goes to show that no matter how famous you are, everyone appreciates a helping hand now and again. Even the late Stephen Hawking once had some sage advice for people in a similar predicament. Just remember that help is out there. Even from Mr Freeze himself.
