Love Your Mind | Things to Try

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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.

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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.

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Get a massage

For:: Burnout ,; Loneliness ,; Worry

Though getting a massage might sound overly indulgent, it can provide healing benefits like calming your nervous system, increasing circulation, relieving muscle tension, eliminating toxins, and boosting immunity. Massage has also been shown to decrease cortisol (a stress hormone) and increase levels of oxytocin (known as “the love hormone.”) Though it's always an option to book at a spa, you can also try self massage or ask a partner.

Connection

Stay connected

Spending time with people you trust can really help you process and manage big emotions and is good for your mental health overall. Even if you don’t feel up to it, reach out to friends and family you trust, in person or remotely. You might be surprised how much it helps in hard moments.

Self-Care

Prioritize self-care and stress relief

Set aside a dedicated time each day to do something that makes you feel calm, alleviates stress or simply makes you happy—whether it’s meditation, giving yourself a facial, cooking, dancing to your favorite playlist, walking your dog, or doodling in a coloring book.

Self-Care

Don’t forget your basic needs

When you’re in a crisis or managing big emotions, it’s easy to forget the everyday habits that can improve your mood and well-being. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eight to 10 hours is ideal. Spend time outside when possible. Move your body in whatever way you can that feels good to you. Make sure you’re eating and drinking plenty of water. Try journaling, meditation, or breathing to help you ground yourself in the present moment.

Practice

Take breaks from news stories and social media

For:: Burnout ,; Non-substance addiction ,; Worry ,; Relationship issues & breakups ,; Anger ,; Coping with discrimination & stigma

Non-stop exposure to anxiety-producing news can amp up any difficult feelings you’re already having. If you find yourself feeling worse after scrolling your feeds, do what you can to limit stressful content. You can decide to check in only at certain times, turn off notifications, or unfollow accounts that create stress and focus on ones that help you feel calm and connected.

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