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| Feeling sad is a normal human emotion, but sometimes it can be hard to shake off. Here are some tips for coping with sadness and finding joy in your life. |
But sometimes sadness can linger for too long, or become overwhelming and interfere with our daily functioning. This can be a sign of depression, a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world.
Depression can cause persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, and emptiness. It can also affect your energy, appetite, sleep, concentration, and interest in activities you once enjoyed. Depression can make you feel isolated and alone, even when you have people who care about you.
If you think you might have depression, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Depression is treatable with therapy, medication, or a combination of both. There are also many things you can do on your own to cope with sadness and improve your mood.
Here are some tips for what to do on sad days:
• Acknowledge your feelings. Don’t try to suppress or ignore your sadness. It’s OK to feel what you feel. Give yourself permission to cry if you need to. Expressing your emotions can help you release them and move on.
• Reach out to someone. You don’t have to go through this alone. Talk to a friend, a family member, a therapist, or a helpline. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with someone who listens and supports you can make you feel less lonely and more hopeful.
• Do something that makes you happy. Even if you don’t feel like it, try to engage in an activity that brings you joy or satisfaction. It could be something simple, like reading a book, listening to music, watching a movie, or playing with a pet. Or it could be something more challenging, like learning a new skill, taking a class, or volunteering for a cause. Doing something that makes you happy can boost your mood and self-esteem.
• Get some sunlight. Exposure to natural light can help regulate your circadian rhythm, which affects your sleep and mood. Sunlight can also stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to happiness. Try to get at least 15 minutes of sunlight every day, preferably in the morning. If you live in a place where sunlight is scarce, especially in the winter, you might benefit from light therapy, which involves using a special device that mimics natural light1.
• Exercise. Physical activity can have many benefits for your mental health. Exercise can increase your endorphin levels, which are hormones that act as natural painkillers and improve your mood2. Exercise can also reduce stress, improve your sleep quality, and enhance your physical health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day, or as often as you can3.
• Eat well. What you eat can affect how you feel. A balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can provide your body and brain with the nutrients they need to function well. Avoid or limit foods that are high in sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and processed ingredients, as they can worsen your mood and energy levels.
• Practice gratitude. When you’re feeling sad, it can be hard to see the positive aspects of your life. But practicing gratitude can help you shift your perspective and appreciate what you have. Gratitude can also increase your happiness, optimism, and satisfaction with life. Try to write down three things you are grateful for every day, no matter how big or small4.
• Be kind to yourself. Sadness can make you feel bad about yourself and your situation. But criticizing yourself or blaming yourself for things you can’t control won’t help you feel better. Instead, try to be compassionate and gentle with yourself. Treat yourself as you would treat a friend who is going through a hard time. Remind yourself that you are doing the best you can, and that this too shall pass.
Sadness is a normal and understandable response to life’s challenges. But you don’t have to let it take over your life. By following these tips, you can cope with sadness and find joy in your life again.
If you need more help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. They can provide you with more guidance and support, and help you overcome depression if you have it.
Remember, you are not alone, and you deserve to be happy.
