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Health and Wellness

12 Things To Do When You Are Sad

Whether you just ended a relationship, lost a friend or finally watched the episode in Grey’s where Dr. Shepherd dies (spoiler alert, my bad) here are a few things that may actually help you feel physically happier.

Emma Pinkerton

Sep 26, 2016

University of St. Thomas

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Its no secret that everyone gets sad. Sometimes getting out of that funk takes more than just slapping on a smile and pretending everything is alright. So whether you just ended a relationship, lost a friend, or finally watched the episode in Grey’s where Dr. Shepherd dies (spoiler alert, my bad), here are a few things that may actually help you feel physically happier!

1. Eat your favorite chocolate bar

Now, I am not saying to go out and indulge on the three foot Hershey’s bar at your local candy store, but chocolate can actually make you happier! The closer you get to pure cacao, the better. Chocolate contains something called theobromine, which is a natural stimulant that helps with energy and the release of serotonin (serotonin is your brain’s happy chemicals).

2. Call your best friend

While talking with someone one on one is great, sometimes talking on the phone can be better. If you are embarrassed or nervous about sharing something then sometimes talking over the phone is the best answer. Your friend will know how to comfort you without having to do that awkward “now now” pat on the back.

3. Exercise

You don’t have to go for a five mile run or even a two minute jog. Just getting up and going for a walk can help release positive endorphins. Whether you like to lift weights or prefer to go on a bike ride, getting active will help you feel better physically and can help clear your mind.

4. Cry

If you are like me then you probably avoid shedding tears; however, crying can actually be beneficial for feeling better. Bottling things up seems like a good idea for a little bit, but crying is one of your body’s natural responses to stress. So just let it gooooooo (sorry, I had to).

5. Go to church

No matter your religion, your church should be a place of comfort and stability. If you aren’t keen to going to church or feel you are too busy, then you should still try to find time to read the Bible (or any sacred text) and pray. God is always there for you!

6. Go on a mom date

This one may be a tad more likely for the ladies, but guys, your mom can help you too. Take your mom to dinner, maybe a little shopping, mani pedi, and then finish it off with some movie and cuddles. Obviously this is not a romantic date, but spending time with the person you know loves you most will do wonders. It doesn’t matter what you do, but spend some quality time with your parents.

7. Find yourself a puppy/kitten or other cute baby animal

There is no way to enjoy puppy kisses or kitten cuddles without a smile. Their adorable attributes and warm fluffiness can warm any heart.

8. Get outside

The vitamin D and warm air will make you chipper. Especially with fall finally here, the weather is about to reach that perfect warm, cool combo that we all love.

9. Watch your favorite comedy

Did you know that even fake laughing can make you feel better? Pop in a copy of School of Rock or Napolean Dynamite and enjoy a good giggle. It’ll take your mind off things and help with the happy.

10. Find someone to cuddle

Physical touch, whether a hugs or kisses can increase your mood quickly. Hugs can increase oxytocin which reduces feelings of loneliness and according to mindbodygreen.com we should actually be getting 8 hugs a friend. So find that one super touchy friend and start hugging.

11. Listen to happy music

Although listening to Flatsound or Adele breakup songs may describe the way you feel at the moment, but it isn’t really going to get you out of your rut. Instead blast your favorite dance playlist and try to get your groove on.

12. Go out

I know that being sad can often lead to secluding yourself in a cave of pillows and blankets and watching Titanic on repeat but sometimes it is best to strap on your dancing shoes and hit the club. You don't have to do anything extravagant or uber exciting but getting out there with your friends (possibly with a couple drinks) can really help up your mood.

Maybe these things are just quick fixes, but I hope they help you get through what ever you are going through at the moment. Share to help out a friend :)

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.

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