As someone who has struggled with anxiety and depression for many years, I know what it’s like to have a long stretch of time where you have no energy and feel at your lowest. Many times I can tell when I am going to be reaching a low point, but other times it comes out of no where. Your brain has a funny way of showing you that you are tired and need a break.
Here are a few things I do to take back control of my mind and take care of myself.
Self-Care Night
I for one love a good self-care night. Whether that be eating a pint of ice cream, watching your favorite movie, or doing a face mask and taking a bath, a self-care night is always a must. It can be hard to get up and do this when you are in a specific frame of mind, but showing your body you love it is a great help. After all, it is a wonderful and beautiful thing.
Do A Workout
Sometimes, working out may not be the best for your mental health but personally, it works wonders for me. If I am angry, anxious, or just overall stressed, getting a workout in is essential for my mental health. I find that while lifting weights or doing an ab routine, my troubles go away. My only warning with this one is for those who struggle with body issues. I myself have and still do struggle with this on some days but changing to a positive mindset with working out and how it affects your body is great, which took me a long time to figure out.
Journal/Art
Taking a moment to reflect on what has been going on in your life can be great, but also intimidating. I had to learn that there is no right or wrong way to go about journaling. Your journal is your journal, no one else’s. I have gone between writing down all my thoughts to bullet journaling, which is more of an artistic way to journal. If you’re not into journaling, you can always do some good old-fashioned painting or doodling! Either of these can be a great way to get everything out of your head and onto paper.
Talk to a Friend…or Therapist
I am a big advocate for going to therapy. I have been seeing the same therapist for about 5 years now and I will never regret the decision to ask for help from someone else. I am really stubborn and hate asking people for help, especially when it comes to my mental health. Even so, asking for help with my mental health was the best decision I ever made. I had been intimidated at first because I always held the image that therapy was laying on a couch while someone psychoanalyzed you, but that’s not the case one bit. My therapist and I talk like old friends and I look forward to seeing her every other week. Even if you can’t reach a therapist, talking to a close friend or family member, after always asking if they are in a good place to talk first, can also be a great idea.
All in all, you have to take care of yourself and be your own #1 supporter because you are pretty f-ing amazing. Remind yourself are loved and there are so many good things coming even if it doesn’t feel that way. Keep your head up and keep going, you got this! <3