5 Ways to Feel Better When You're Down
Life gets everybody down now and then. And sometimes, when you get stuck in a hole of sadness, it's hard to climb back out again. If you focus on your sadness, it gets bigger, more overwhelming, and harder to chase away.
But you don't have to resign yourself to feeling down. Whether you're sad about something that's happened in your life or you're just in a funk, it's possible to feel better. Here are five things you can do to lift yourself up and renew your optimism when you're sad.
1. Talk to a Trusted Friend
There's nothing more cathartic than pouring out your feelings to someone who will just listen and not judge you. If you've got someone like that in your life, turn to them when your feelings are too hard to carry alone. You may find that you feel a little bit lighter after you talk it out. And if your friend knows you well, they might have some helpful advice for your situation, too.
2. Get Your Blood Pumping
A long walk can cure just about anything. So can a long run, or an intense weightlifting session at the gym. Exercise causes your body to release endorphins, which are painkilling chemicals that give you an all-natural sensation of euphoria and well-being. Working out won't solve all your problems in life, that's true - but it will make you feel much better prepared to deal with them. If you've been wishing you could pop a pill for happiness lately, the next best thing is to lace up your shoes and get moving.
3. Turn to Your Faith
If you are religious or spiritual, your faith can be a strong source of comfort and guidance during sad times. Praying is something you can do to connect with your higher power anytime, anywhere. You can also deepen and enhance your faith by studying your religious texts on your own. Just approach them with an open mind and a willingness to learn - you don't have to be an expert or an academic to study your sacred texts. Resources like a Bible commentary can help you get the most out of your study sessions.
4. Help Somebody Else
Sometimes, when you're feeling down, the best thing to do is to focus on somebody else. There aren't many things more uplifting than making a positive difference in somebody else's life. Volunteering is one excellent way to make a difference. If you're a student, you may be able to find volunteer opportunities through your school or university. You can also use a site like VolunteerMatch to search for opportunities to help with causes you believe in. No time to volunteer? Do something nice for a friend or family member instead. Help your friend move into their new apartment, for instance, or bake some goodies and deliver them to a loved one.
5. Write!
A little honest self-reflection can help you get to the root of whatever is bothering you. Grab a pen and notebook and spend half an hour getting all your thoughts out onto the page. Don't censor yourself - no one else will read your writing. Then spend another few minutes looking over what you wrote. You might find that putting all your feelings down on paper helps you find a solution - or you might find that the simple act of writing makes you feel better. If you're concerned about privacy, destroy the pages after you're done reflecting on them.
Another way to soothe your soul is to share your thoughts and insights with other people. WordPress is an excellent tool to build your blog and connect to other readers. Take advantage of this platform and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from sharing your writing.
The Takeaway
Sadness doesn't last forever. If you're feeling blue, these tips can help you get out of your own head, regain some perspective, and renew your feelings of hope and optimism. And remember, if you are struggling with feelings of severe sadness or hopelessness, the best thing you can do is to call your doctor or therapist. Asking for help when you need it is a sign of strength.
