Things to try

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Create an end-of-work day habit
For:
Burnout ,
Worry ,
Money issues ,
Workplace issues & unemployment
To create a clear end to the work day, try doing things like putting away your work materials, stepping away for another activity, or following away-from-work communication rules you define with your coworkers (like setting expectations you aren’t available for meetings, calls, or email replies after a certain time).
Book Read 3 min.
Plan out an enjoyable day
For:
Burnout ,
Grief & loss ,
Loneliness ,
Sadness ,
Relationship issues & breakups
Taking the time to plan out an enjoyable day for yourself can give you something to look forward to, and the day itself can have numerous benefits ranging from reduced feelings of burnout to more energy and a fresher perspective. Instead of wondering what you should do, think about what you want to do. Though taking a joyride in a stolen Ferrari isn’t recommended, Ferris Bueller had some pretty good ideas—taking a long shower, hanging with your friends, going to the top of a tall building, treating yourself to a nice lunch, catching some sports, visiting a museum, singing and dancing, soaking in a hot tub are ideas that might help you start dreaming up your own options.
Book Read
Go for a walk
For:
Anger ,
Burnout ,
Loneliness ,
Sadness ,
Worry ,
Money issues ,
Non-substance addiction ,
Relationship issues & breakups ,
Substance use ,
Trauma
Walking might sound almost too easy to be effective, but it elevates your heart rate enough to count as exercise and also has some amazing benefits. Research shows it can boost your mood, energy level, creativity, and productivity, making it a perfect way to clear your head and take a break. It can also help to reduce symptoms of depression, strengthen your immune system, and improve heart health. This makes it a great habit to stay physically and mentally strong so you’re better equipped to deal with stress.
Lightbulb Activity
Stop and observe your breath
For:
Anger ,
Guilt ,
Worry ,
Family conflict ,
Non-substance addiction ,
Substance use ,
Trauma
Take a few minutes (even just 5-10) to sit in silence and focus solely on your breath as you inhale and exhale. This is a simple way to calm your mind and body and can help shift your focus to the present moment and give your mind a rest from negative thoughts. It may take some practice, so don't beat yourself up if you catch your mind wandering—noticing when this happens is actually a great sign. All you have to do is refocus and keep going, which is a skill in itself.
Lightbulb Activity
Watch something funny
For:
Anger ,
Grief & loss ,
Loneliness ,
Sadness ,
Relationship issues & breakups
Humor has a lot of power. Watching a comedic movie or even a standup comedy special may seem like a bandaid, but it has the potential to tap into the depths of your true self. (This goes back to the common phrase, "It's funny because it's true.") Finding ways to laugh at pieces of art (comedy is art!) has been something people have done for centuries to cope and reflect on the human experience. Comedy can help you feel a little better by highlighting what's important to you and the silver linings of life's ups and downs.
Lightbulb Activity
Invest in a weighted blanket
For:
Grief & loss ,
Guilt ,
Loneliness ,
Sadness ,
Worry ,
Relationship issues & breakups ,
Trauma
TLDR: Weighted blankets work. Weighted vests even work for our animal friends! And there are even weighted stuffed animals.The science is simple: It's like being tucked in – safe and secure – or like a big hug from someone you love. The weight in a weighted blanket is proven to help settle nerves and improve sleep, which in turn has all sorts of benefits for your health.
Lightbulb Activity
Do one small thing that will help you feel better
For:
Anger ,
Sadness ,
Worry ,
Chronic health issues & disabilities ,
Family conflict ,
Relationship issues & breakups ,
Trauma
When you’re in a bad headspace, it can be challenging to find the energy to take care of yourself. Even the smallest of activities might feel too overwhelming to begin. But that doesn’t mean you aren’t deserving of it. Find some time to do one nice thing you enjoy—whether it be listening to an album you love, reading a book, or treating yourself to your favorite snack.
Lightbulb Activity
Spend some time with a pet
For:
Grief & loss ,
Loneliness ,
Sadness ,
Worry ,
Chronic health issues & disabilities ,
Relationship issues & breakups
Pets can provide comfort, companionship, and more often than not, a laugh, when you need it most. Science also backs up the benefits of having a pet on your mental health. Spend some time playing with your pet and enjoying each other company. If you don’t have a pet but love animals, consider volunteering at a shelter or visiting a neighbor or a friend with a pet.

Showing 1—8 of 33