18 Helpful Tips for Overcoming Depression, Anxiety, and Feeling Stuck: How to Feel Okay Most Days
All points listed are supported by research. Some techniques may not resonate with you, but experimenting with them can help you find what works best for you. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. For further elaboration on these topics, refer to other pages on the site. Consider this list as a reminder and a source of inspiration.
Treat yourself with the kindness you would show a loved one. Avoid self-deprecating thoughts and excessive pressure.
Recognize the significance of small decisions. Your daily choices can either propel you towards freedom and happiness, or hinder your progress, keeping you stuck in your current situation.
Steer clear of unhealthy coping mechanisms. While substances such as drugs, alcohol, and sex can be used responsibly, frequent use as an escape from painful emotions only delays addressing underlying issues, potentially leading to further negative consequences.
Avoid destructive quick fixes. High glycemic index foods, sugar, and engaging in gossip or over-disclosure may provide temporary relief but often result in subsequent crashes or complications. If you find yourself in this situation, try to redirect the conversation.
Opt for healthy quick fixes. When tempted by unhealthy choices, consider consuming slow carbs, listening to music, gardening, reading positive affirmations, seeking motivational reminders, reaching out to an accountability partner, or spending time with pets.
Embrace discomfort as part of the healing process. Practice mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, to acknowledge and observe painful thoughts without dwelling on them?
Prioritize physical activity. Even a simple walk outdoors can have positive effects on your mood, especially when surrounded by nature.
Eat better. If you constantly feel bad after you eat, visit an allergist or try the elimination diet to see if certain foods are causing the problem.
Explore potential benefits and side effects of mood-lifting herbs. This includes St. John’s wort, saffron, Rhodiola Rosea, lavender, Echium amoenum, Banxia-Houpo-Tang, Polygala tenuifolia Willdenow, Suyu-Jiaonang (SYJN), Gan-Mai-Da-Zao, Verongida rigida, Gotu Kola, and Cannabis. See the 2-page description on the RBC site.
Rx drugs. Sometimes prescription medication may be needed. It’s important to remember that each medication has side effects and each one will react differently when taken with certain foods, medications, or herbal supplements. Always double check these interactions.
Seek guidance when making important decisions. Talk to a life coach, a trusted friend or family member, religious leader, or a crisis intervention specialist when you need support.
Engage in self-reflection and personal development. Absorb motivational content daily. Take personality assessments. Seek out feedback. Journal. Participate in some form of therapy. This will foster growth and resilience.
Adopt a spiritual perspective. Cultivate gratitude and resilience. Recognize the strengths gained from past challenges, release resentments, and focus on personal growth and empowerment.
Practice service towards others. Kindness should be shown to everyone, without expecting anything in return. Generosity can foster a sense of purpose and connection, even if done anonymously.
Consider stress and fear to be opportunities. Don’t run from the opportunities. Promote your emotional well-being by learning from your responses and address the root cause. Address regrets or resentments. Examine your beliefs and, if they are false or conditioned, challenge them!
Approach new relationships with realistic expectations. Remember the truism: You will only be happy in a relationship when you’ve learned to be happy outside of a relationship. All relationships require compromise, emotional maturity, and humility.
Embrace life’s ups & downs. There is a myth, heavily reinforced by advertisers in Western culture, that “I’ll be happy when...” External factors, like fame and fortune, won’t be able to provide lasting happiness. In order to experience happiness and fulfillment, cultivate inner peace and resilience.
Find balance between work and fun. Life is a grind and you need to make time for self-care and activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Revisit abandoned dreams and consider what truly matters to you in life.