There’s a lot to be sad and stressed about right now. And if you’re feeling a bit blue and anxious, don’t try to suppress or run from your emotions. It’s okay to be sad sometimes.
Sadness has a way of helping us take stock of our lives, find perspective, and realize who and what really matters and who and what are truly important.
Stress, too, isn’t always bad. Stressful moments can help focus our mind and give us the strength to push through difficult situations. Experiencing – and accepting – negative feelings are actually good for our mental health.
What’s not emotionally healthy is wallowing in the awfulness or letting it wreak havoc on our lives and relationships. You can move past the sadness and stress, if you’re willing to…
See the good that’s around you.
There are neighbors decorating still-dormant trees with smiley-face balloons, and entire neighborhoods are turning on Christmas lights to brighten the mood. Teachers are leading car parades and honking hello to their students stuck at home. Little ones are drawing happy emojis and leaving messages of hope on sidewalks and driveways. Good Samaritans are picking up medications, groceries and running errands for those most at risk and vulnerable. Countless examples like these are happening in every community.
Count your blessings.Be grateful for the things, big and small, you do have. Good health, loved ones, a home to shelter in, enough food on the table, an adoring pet, friendships, sunrises and whatever else makes your heart smile.
Be giving.You can’t always control when or if you need help, or whether that help will even come. But you can control the help you offer others. Performing acts of kindness will change your mood and lighten your emotional burden. It can also have a ripple effect, making others feel better and inspiring them to be more generous and giving, too.
These are just a few examples of how you can find happiness even when you’re experiencing hard times or hurting. Boys Town parenting expert Bridget Barnes offers even more insights on relieving anxiety and sadness, including five steps you can take right now.
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