If you’re someone who struggles with or who has struggled with their mental health in the past, you know how frustrating and tiring it can be. Hitting a low point in your mental health can be hard, as it’s likely to affect all other aspects of your life. I hope this list is helpful with getting you back on track.
1. Ask for Help
I know, I know I’m starting with the big stuff, but with something so serious, sometimes it’s better to dive in headfirst. Talking to your friends or family can be a great tool but talking to a professional that’s is coped to deal with your problems can be immensely beneficial. With that in mind however, don’t settle. If the person you’re seeing doesn’t feel like a good fit, find someone new.
2. Take care of the little things.
Especially if you’re going through major things in your life right now, taking care of the smaller things can be helpful in dealing with big problems. Take the time to do easy tasks like cleaning your room or making your lunch for the next day, which can take a weight off your shoulders and create a real sense of accomplishment.
3. Accept Who You Are
As someone who has struggled with their mental health, it can be hard to accept that you have a problem; but having problems doesn’t mean that you can’t fix them or work on them. Shame and embarrassment does nothing to break the stigma around mental illness, and only serves to hinder any progress you’re capable of making.
4. Lean into Your Fear
It’s kind of lame, but I read a story on tumblr about something another user’s brother had told her about his journey with mental illness. He said at times “I miss the comfort of being sad.” It stemmed from this idea that his mental illness was so intertwined with his identity that he didn’t know and was fearful of who he was without it. It’s okay to be scared of how your life might change, but taking a leap of faith when you’re scared can be rewarding.
5. Recognize Your Strengths
A lot of people’s experiences with mental illness include feeling like life is pointless. It’s so important, especially during these moments to identify the things you’re good at and what you’ve accomplished in your life. Again, it doesn’t haven’t to be anything major like putting out a fire, but can be something as simple as getting out of bed showering and making it to class on time – something I would argue is not as easy as it sounds, especially if you have a mental illness. It’s important to remember the reasons why you want to be alive and how being alive positively contributes to the world.