Things I can do
Stay social
Whether you’ve had a bad day or need help with a problem you’re struggling with, it really helps to have someone to offload to. We know it’s tough to be social when you’re feeling down, but try not to shut yourself off from everybody – people that care about you will always be glad that you’ve come to them for help.
Exercise is a great way of staying social and lifting your mood. It doesn’t have to be much – even just a 10-minute walk with a mate can give you a boost.
Face your fears
Avoiding situations that are out of your comfort zone is understandable when you’re feeling low. You might not be feeling your best and suffering from poor self-esteem or low confidence levels. It’s easier said than done, but facing up to situations that make you anxious can help you feel more in control – you’ll feel so much better for having done it.
Don’t drink too much alcohol
Alcohol can unfortunately become a ‘go-to’ relief from all of the stresses of life, particularly in uncertain times. But alcohol can actually make you feel worse about yourself, and can make your troubles worse rather than better. If you’re feeling down, try to avoid situations where alcohol might be involved. Instead, go for a walk, try some exercise, or phone a friend if you feel yourself reaching for a drink at home too often.
Have a routine
Nobody wants to be like a bear with a sore head. Establishing a regular sleep pattern is a good place to start with getting yourself into a routine – it can help your body to relax and make the days seem easier to manage. Make sure your routine is consistent – although the odd lie-in is sometimes necessary with a busy lifestyle, it shouldn’t become a daily occurrence.
You should also try to keep your mealtimes regular, to avoid skipping meals or snacking constantly. Having a good diet means more energy and can help with some of the physical side effects you may have.
Seek professional help
Everyone is allowed an off-day – nobody can feel completely happy 100% of the time. But if you’re feeling overwhelmed, chat to someone who understands. You can speak to your GP for help. Or, If you need immediate support, CALM provides a webchat service and a telephone helpline, as do the Samaritans. Solutions to feeling down are not one-size-fits-all – everyone finds different things that suit them. There are a wide range of therapies and medications that can help, so why not reach out?