1. Stop Being So Hard on Yourself
We put a lot of pressure on ourselves. While it’s beneficial to aspire to greatness, sometimes you need to sit back, reflect, and recognize all the good things you have going on right now.
When you’re feeling down, try this: think about the things in life you’re grateful for. Focus on what you have, not what you don’t. Stop putting so much pressure on yourself to constantly achieve, and be content with who you are right now at this moment. And remember, happiness is a choice.
2. Get up and Move
One of the best ways to pick yourself up when you’re having a tough day is to get up and do some exercise.
One study found that “exercise, whether performed at a low (yoga or similar), moderate or vigorous intensity (aerobic training) is effective in treating mild to moderate depression and is at least as effective as treatment as usual by a physician”[1]
Therefore, even if you don’t enjoy Zumba or Pilates classes, taking a walk around the block can be just as effective in lifting your spirits. Whatever you do, get up, get moving, and get over it.
3. Surround Yourself With People You Love
Family members and friends can be the best medicine when you are feeling depressed or stressed from time to time. Even if you can’t see them in person, pick up the phone and call someone you love. Sometimes all you need is a friend to listen to you and offer some positive thoughts.
Many studies have pointed out the importance of social support on overall well-being[2]. Tough days are inevitable, but having people to go to at those times makes a world of difference and can help you turn things around. If you’ve been suffering from depression or excessive stress for a long time, support groups can also be a great way to find connection.
4. Find a Way to Laugh
We take life a little too seriously sometimes, so let’s put this in perspective: how you’re feeling right now is one tiny moment out of the thousands you will experience in your lifetime.
Know that sadness is temporary, and pick yourself up by watching your favorite funny show, movie, or video online.
One study has pointed out that “laughter decreases serum levels of cortisol, epinephrine, growth hormone, and 3,4-dihydrophenylacetic acid (a major dopamine catabolite), indicating a reversal of the stress response”[3]. Therefore, laughter can be especially effective if you’re had a stressful day at work or are feeling frustrated with life.
5. Eat Something Healthy
When people are feeling down, most turn to junk food. Unfortunately, this is one of the worst things you can do for your mental health.
Recent studies have pointed to a link between food and mood. Some suggest that Vitamin D can help lower rates of depression, while another found “an association between depression and a diet rich in sugar-sweetened soft drinks, refined grains, and red meat”[4].