Ten Tips for Battling the Blues

It's totally normal to feel a little down sometimes. Below are a few pick-me-ups that can help you battle the blues.

Tip #1: Sunlight! Vitamin D is known as the “sunshine vitamin”. Studies have shown a link between vitamin D deficiency and depression. A meta-analysis study from 2013 found that people with low Vitamin D are at greater risk of depression. These means it is important for you to take time each day to get some light! Step out into the sunshine, even if just for a few minutes and take several deep breaths. If there is no sunlight currently where you are turn on all the lights. Light in general will help!

Tip #2: Create a daily checklist! A feeling of aimlessness can make us feel down. Creating a checklist for the day allows you to check off what you achieved and have that feeling of direction and accomplishment. I recommend 5 things each day you want to accomplish.

Tip #3: Set some goals! Setting goals and a path to achieving them again gives us focus, direction and a sense of purpose. Set one new SMART goal for yourself and create a plan. I’ve attached a goal setting and action planning worksheet to help you!

Tip #4: Citrus! There are many types of room sprays, candles, essential oils in this category. Citrus is known to boost our mood and that fresh, spring scents often stimulates positive memories. Get some fresh lemon or orange going in the house!

Tip #5: Declutter. Cluttered workspace= cluttered mind. Organize your workspace, burn a fresh smelling candle, buy yourself some fresh flowers, etc. Make your bed, don’t leave dirty dishes on the counter….all of these things signal your brain that things are disorganized and messy so we carry that over into other areas of our lives.

Tip #6: Focus on others. We get down when we starting thinking about our own issues, fears, etc. Instead, focus your energy on something you can do for someone else! Why? Because when we do acts of kindness it actually stimulates our own “happy hormones” serotonin and dopamine. Doing nice things for others is one of the best ways to battle the blues😊

Tip #7: Play happy music! Music can effect our mode dramatically. Play upbeat, fun music….it is hard to feel down with “Don’t Worry Be Happy” playing in the background!

Tip #8: Beware of social media. People often post “only the best scenarios”. We read Facebook, Instagram and start comparing ourselves. DON’T DO IT! No one has a perfect life, so getting caught up in just what people post is very misleading.

Tip #9: Talk to someone. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Often we think we are the only person in the world feeling the way we do but that isn’t the case. Talk to someone that you can laugh with, be honest with and help each other out!

Tip #10: Get help if you need it. Take advantage of resources including any Employee Assistance Plans and professionals that can guide you through this challenging time.

Be well!