I’m not an expert and I don’t suffer from serious depression. I’m not at all suggesting that these tips could help someone who struggles with things I couldn’t possibly understand. What I do know is that every now and then life can get a little blah for me, and I’ve developed certain strategies to try and point myself in the right direction. Figured I would share them, partly to remind myself, and partly because I would love to hear your tips.
Clean the house
Whenever I start feeling like things are gloom and doom for me, I find that cleaning the house is a way to try and get back on track. I think it’s because the things that get me down often feel beyond my control, so it feels good to exert control of my living space. There’s also just the thought that if I’m feeling happy about my living environment, the rest of me will hopefully follow.
Make a to-do list
This has been a game changer for me, and my list includes both big and small things. I might have a list that includes things like wash the dishes, put laundry in, call the bank, and more. The point is that I load up on small tasks, then knock off a bunch of them so I can look at this completed list and feel accomplished for the day. It’s almost like tricking myself into feeling productive.
What makes you happy?
I view battling my blahs as a boss fight. Boss fights have mechanics and when you first meet the boss, they often destroy you. As you learn the patterns of the boss you come up with ways to defeat it. I know my blahs, and thus do things I know will beat them. For me, shows that make me laugh, a phone call with a friend, or spending time with my cats. Study your enemy (the blahs) and exploit their weakness!
Accept it's real
Sometimes when I’m feeling down, I catch myself fighting it. Almost in denial, as if I just won’t feel bad if I won’t admit I feel bad. Having a positive mindset can be wonderful but being in denial won’t help. Often, it’s not until I stop and think, “I’m really sad right now” that I can start to feel better because I can move on to other important questions, such as, “Why am I feeling down, honestly?”
Tell someone
I’m not afraid to text my friends and just tell them that I’m feeling down. They are all wonderful people and it normally leads to a phone call, or a few days of texts checking up on me, reassurance, gaming nights, and much more. If you’re feeling down, tell someone. For me, seeing how much people care about me is one of the most effective ways of feeling better.
Again, I by no means want to come off sounding like I have great advice that can help anyone. This might all just be random BS that only makes sense to me. I don’t struggle with severe depression or anxiety, and those of you that do, you’re so much stronger than I could ever hope to be. You’re a rockstar if you are feeling down and you managed to get out of bed this morning. I’m proud of you whether you got out of bed or not.
If you are struggling right now, here are two numbers that can help:
- Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 833-456-4566
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (US): 800-273-8255
If you’ve got any tips or life hacks for breaking out of the mild blahs, I’d love to hear them and possibly add them to my arsenal of tricks.
