Love Your Mind | Things to Try

Ask for specific help

For:: Grief & loss ,; Guilt ,; Loneliness ,; Sadness ,; Chronic health issues & disabilities ,; Family conflict ,; Money issues ,; Burnout

Though making a specific ask when you're going through difficult times might feel strange, well-intentioned friends who say “Let me know if I can do anything” will be glad to have a clear idea of how to be helpful. If you aren’t sure where to start, consider: Practical support: errands, cooking, babysitting, etc.; Social/well-being activities: taking a walk, going to coffee or lunch, etc.; Emotional support: spending time together—to talk, or just spend time together.

Keep a routine that involves self-care

For:: Burnout ,; Sadness ,; Chronic health issues & disabilities ,; Workplace issues & unemployment ,; Relationship issues & breakups ,; Coping with discrimination & stigma

Sticking to a daily routine that includes self care can help things feel more stable and prevent against depression. Aim to eat and sleep at regular times, and make time for walks or exercise. Mental health is important too, so make time for seeing others and consider practicing meditation or deep breathing.

Seek out things that make you happy

For:: Grief & loss ,; Loneliness ,; Sadness ,; Opening up to friends & family ,; Chronic health issues & disabilities

Look for ways to give your mind a break and find moments of happiness, including keeping up with hobbies and interests or exploring new ones. As an added bonus, participating in fun and engaging activities helps us develop resiliency and healthy coping mechanisms, and may even increase how long you live, according to The National Institute on Aging.

Spend time with friends and family

For:: Family conflict ,; Opening up to friends & family ,; Loneliness ,; Chronic health issues & disabilities ,; Relationship issues & breakups

Feeling connected to others can help life feel more balanced and, according to studies, even impact how our bodies feel. Spend time with friends and family to help take some of the focus away from work, reduce the impact of stressors—or even physical pain—and develop strong connections you can lean on for support.

Get creative

For:: Burnout ,; Chronic health issues & disabilities ,; Sadness ,; Loneliness ,; Worry ,; Navigating your gender & sexuality

Creative expression can be one of the healthiest ways to cope with stress. Whether it be painting, writing, comedy, dancing, singing, cooking—doing something you find joy in can uplift the mind, soul, and spirit. If you have a hobby from the past you’ve been meaning to pick back up, carve some time out to give it a go.

Stay current on healthcare and be open with your doctors

For:: Non-substance addiction ,; Substance use ,; Trauma ,; Chronic health issues & disabilities

See your doctor(s) for regular check-ups. Doing this can catch conditions before they become bigger issues. Make a habit of sharing your questions and concerns so you know what you’re dealing with, and can get the help you need. If relevant, consider what long term and end-of-life care options are important to you, and tell a trusted loved one. Though it may be difficult to think about, it’ll provide relief to know you’ve communicated your wishes in advance of any emergency situations and will prevent them from being put in difficult positions later.

Consider attending therapy

For:: Worry ,; Anger ,; Burnout ,; Chronic health issues & disabilities ,; Coping with discrimination & stigma ,; Family conflict ,; Grief & loss ,; Guilt ,; Loneliness ,; Non-substance addiction ,; Sadness ,; Shame ,; Substance use ,; Trauma

Therapists and psychiatrists are trained to deal with a range of situations and can reliably hold a safe space for working through things together and develop helpful coping skills.

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