Break Through Mental Health Slumps

It is no secret that I suffer from the effects of anxiety and depression. I have struggled with the grips of these illnesses since I was a child. Lately, my mood has been less then ideal. I've been agitated, fatigued, panicked, and full of pain. There are many nights I sleep very little and quite a few days I have to fight to make any sort of progress. Self care helps. I do practice taking time for me where I can, trying to do activities I enjoy. I make a solid effort most days to get up, get dressed, shower, do my hair and makeup. I follow a pretty consistent schedule which is helpful.

I have done all sorts of therapy in the past. I have been on medication to help me with my anxiety for many years. All of this is helpful. Currently however, life circumstances have prevented me from having access to a therapist at a convenient time. I experienced a lap in health insurance so for now, am off of medication. This has propelled me to discover new ways to help me to cope with my mood. In no way should these suggestions replace the crucial benefits of therapy and medication, however I've found them to be helpful if there are barriers to access. They may also be helpful adjuncts to therapy, medication, and your current self care routine. Here are some ideas that are currently helping me cope and break through my mental health symptoms.

Writing

There is power in putting words to paper. I both journal, blog and share social media posts daily. Expressing what is on my mind and sharing my story helps me to release inner emotion. I also believe I may be relating to another individual who may be experiencing something similar. I feel hope knowing I may be helping. I have a sense of accomplishment when I complete a writing exercise. This gives me a boost in my mood, at least temporarily. Even if you are not a writer or are more private, getting your thoughts out can be extremely beneficial. Even if you alone are the one who you choose to share it with.

Reading

When my mood was at my worst, many suggested reading as a healthy way to cope. I would try to read, but would become easily distracted and preoccupied with my thoughts. What changed was I joined a book club at work. This gave me some accountability to just sit down and make progress in my book. I set a timer for 30 minutes, everyday and just do it. I've found this to be a perfect formula to fit it into my schedule. The great benefit has been being able to actually focus on the book, with little disruption. I am enjoying what I'm reading and feel satisfied that I'm making progress. So if you can join a book club, do it. Or at the least try setting a timer for an allocated amount of time daily. You'll be amazed how much reading you can get through by doing a little bit everyday.

Working Side Gigs

I've picked up two consistent side gigs over the last year. This has been beneficial financially and for distraction. When I'm broke, I'm more depressed and obsessively worry. Working side gigs alleviates some of this concern. When I'm working I also get out of my own head to focus on the task at hand. My two current side gigs are re selling on an app called Poshmark and working for a grocery delivery service called Shipt. I do this in addition to my full time job. The gig options allow for flexibility. I can work them whenever I have free time, usually evenings and weekends. It does take some discipline to maintain side gigs as it's easy to say, "I don't feel like it today." What has been helpful for me is to set weekly goals. I do ten Shipt shops a week which will usually amount to about $200 extra dollars. I allocate 30 minutes a day to Poshmark which brings in about $200 extra dollars a month right now. Other side gig options may be driving services such as Lyft or Uber, food delivery such as DoorDash, or taking surveys through different apps and websites. Whatever you choose, it will help you in more ways then one if you can discipline yourself enough to follow through. Below are the links to Poshmark and Shipt if you are interested in signing up yourself.

Poshmark: Use code Tiernimarie for $10 off your purchase: https://posh.mk/gKJrCsBzg3

Inspirational Quotes

I am big on sharing inspiring quotes on social media. I share often in my Facebook story and on Instagram. It helps me to seek out quotes that resonate with my current mood and situation. I also feel sharing can help others who may feel similar to myself. In a way it is like saying a daily affirmation to myself. You can do what I have and turn your Instagram feed into a collection of poetry. You then have this to look back on when you have feelings of struggle. There truly is power in words so share. You'll be surprised with how many people you touch.

Education

I have decided to pursue another degree. I understand this is a big commitment and certainly not feasible for everyone. It honestly isn't something I was expecting to do a year ago, but circumstances changed. I now feel it is necessary to obtain a better career and future. School is yet another opportunity for me to be disciplined. I have to get out of my head to focus on the work. I also admit that I love the sense of accomplishment with each assignment I check off my list. Receiving an "A" makes me feel proud. If college is not feasible I encourage you to educate yourself through a coarse, many of which are free. This doesn't have to be around your career. It can be in a hobby, life skills or personal development. Udemy is a great app and website to check out for different coarse ideas. Even regularly listening to Ted Talks can be a form of education. It gives you added insight and information to share to others.

Conclusion

Getting through mental health slumps is not easy. It takes focus and drive, which often lack when you are suffering. However if you can take small steps toward accomplishing something you will see improvement in your symptoms. Take the time to do this today. If you are deep in despair or suicidal please contact The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Help is there. I hope you find something to bring you peace and fulfillment today. You deserve it.

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