Life can feel heavy sometimes. We all deal with stress, sadness, and moments where it feels like nothing is going right. If you’re feeling this way, just know…you’re not alone. Mental health struggles like depression and anxiety are more common than you might think. But the good news is, there are simple things you can do to help yourself feel better.
Get Moving—It Really Helps
One of the easiest ways I handle tough times is by going for a walk or a run. You don’t have to be a super athlete to do this. Just getting outside, feeling the sun, and breathing fresh air can do wonders for your mood. Movement helps release stress and clears your mind. Start small walk for 10 minutes a day and build from there.
Set Simple Goals
When life feels out of control, I try to set small, reasonable goals. It gives me something positive to focus on instead of the negative stuff going on in the world. Your goals don’t have to be big. It could be as simple as cleaning up your room, finishing a book, or cooking a new meal. These small wins remind you that you’re making progress.
Watch What You Take In
Let’s be real, news and social media can be overwhelming. I’m careful about what I watch and listen to because too much negativity will consume you. If you’re feeling down, take a break from the constant news cycle or endless scrolling. Try spending that time doing something that makes you feel happy.
Find Joy in Childhood Memories
For me, going back to things I loved as a kid really helps. I’m a big wrestling fan, so sometimes I’ll watch old wrestling matches or play wrestling video games. It brings back good memories and makes me feel like a kid again, even if it’s just for a little while. Find your thing…whether it’s cartoons, old music, or childhood hobbies and let yourself enjoy it.
Don’t Be Afraid to Talk to Someone
This one is hard, especially for us men. We’re taught to keep our feelings to ourselves. But trust me talking to someone can really help. If you’re feeling really down, reach out to a therapist. And if that feels like too much, just try to be around people. You don’t even have to say much. Being around others helps more than you might realize.
I remember after my divorce, I fell into a depression or at least a feeling I had never felt before. I didn’t like the idea of living in apartments, but I chose to for a while just to be around people. And you know what? It helped. When you’re around others, even strangers, you start to feel a sense of accountability. You don’t even realize it’s happening, but it pushes you to keep going.
Final Thoughts
You’re not weak for feeling down, and you’re not alone in this fight. Take it one day at a time. Walk, set small goals, watch what you feed your mind, enjoy things from your childhood, and most of all, don’t be afraid to reach out. Life will get better, even if it takes time. The storm don’t last long.
