After I got home and was done with finals and school I thought all of my anxiety and depression would just drift away. For me my anxiety is amplified during stressful situations or if I spend too much alone time when I am in a bad headspace. Depression usually happens when I have low-self esteem or I feel disappointed in myself. My winter break was going well until my mental health started to crumble again.
After a few mental breakdowns of being filled with rage, sadness and fear I decided to re-evaluate myself. After speaking with my father and my therapist I decided to come up with some simple solutions.
Exercising again.
Being swamped with school work and extracurriculars last semester, I didn't dedicate enough time to go to the gym or at least just get myself outside. I started doing sand workouts on the beach, long runs and hill sprints. I was able to feel calmer and focused. My moods even felt more stable and my thinking started to feel more rational.
Decreasing the amount of alcohol I consume.
I was a little embarrassed to come to terms that I can't drink as much as my friends because it makes me depressed. The medication I take with alcohol is not deadly, but it is not the best combination.
Eating healthier.
I started eating foods high in proteins and vitamins such as avocados, eggs, green vegetables and fruits. I started eating less sugar and gluten. I also started drinking more coffee and water to heighten my energy levels.
Going to therapy regularly.
Therapy is helpful, but once I feel like I don't have a problem to discuss that week I get lazy and don't want to go. Therapy is a process and it's more about learning about yourself during the good and the bad.
Being more organized.
I started practicing my organizational skills again because it is something I struggle with. I started filling out the reminders section in my phone for appointments and I did the same in my planner.
Spending time with family and pets.
I spent quality time with my extended family and their dog. I also spent a lot of time with my two cats at home. I felt great to feel connected and have some type of security. I also volunteered at a dog rescue shelter called Lovejoy.
These are some tips that I discovered over break that helped me a lot. I hope these are some tips you can benefit from too. Coming to terms that areas of my life needed a lot of work was stressful, but once I realized how easy these changes were it wasn't too challenging.
sunrise
StableDiffusion
bonfire friends
StableDiffusion
sadness
StableDiffusion
purple skies
StableDiffusion
true love
StableDiffusion
My Cheerleader
StableDiffusion
womans transformation to happiness and love
StableDiffusion
future life together of adventures
StableDiffusion
