Mental wellness is important for leading a balanced, happy life, but accessing therapy isn’t always easy. Whether it’s due to financial setbacks or lack of time or resources, you can still take steps to keep yourself in the right state of mind.
When I was going through many losses at a time in my life; I fell into deep depression, battled with suicidal thoughts and isolation. I was often overwhelmed with self-pity and the negative things that had happned. I knew I needed help but I never had the opportunity to see a therapist and so I decided to take matters into my own hands. It was a brave decision to battle with my mind, take charge of my emotions and fight to live a life without the chokehold of endless depression and sorrow. Although it took years and great effort, I triumped over depression and guess what, you can too!
In this article, I describe the things I did in my depressive state to maintain my sanity and recover from depression overtime. Please read to the end!
DISCLAIMER: I am not a registered therapist, this is me sharing my opinion and experience on what I did personally to become better and live a life without sorrow and depression. If you have the resources for therapy, please do not let this post discourage you!
1. Limit Social Media Consumption
Social media can be a double-edged sword. While it helps us stay connected and educates us in many ways, it can also lead to comparison, envy, and overwhelm. If you’re a passive social media user and have no plan to be an active user, you are more succeptible to these negative emotions that social media creates. By limiting your time on social platforms, you free up mental space to focus on what truly matters. Stop the mindless scrolling and download an app to help with the addiction. I still use burnout buddy to help me concentrate.
2. Journal as Much as You Can
Writing your thoughts down is a powerful way to process emotions, clarify goals, and reflect on your experiences. Journaling doesn’t require fancy notebooks or perfect grammar; it’s about honesty, your own world. Whether it’s a gratitude list, venting frustrations, or planning your day, the act of putting pen to paper can help release mental clutter and foster inner peace.
3. Talk to Someone You Trust from Time to Time
Bottling up emotions can lead to stress and isolation. In my case, I had a few conversations with my elder brother and that helped sometimes. Having someone you trust to confide in—a friend, family member, or mentor—provides a safe outlet for sharing your thoughts and feelings. Even a short, heartfelt conversation can ease burdens and remind you that you’re not alone. I understand that not everyone has this privilege but there is one person far greater than anyone on this earth and that leads me to the next point.
4. Pray and Get Closer to God
For those with spiritual beliefs, prayer and connecting with a higher power can be deeply grounding. Talking to God fosters an assurance provide comfort, hope, and a sense of purpose. Whether it’s through prayer, meditation, or reading sacred texts like the bible, building your spiritual life can help you feel anchored in times of uncertainty. God was my main companion in my dark times and even as things has gotten better, he still remains my greates companion, there are things far greater than vanity.
5. Understand That You Are Enough
In a world that constantly pushes us to do more and be more, reminding yourself that you are enough as you are is revolutionary. Celebrate small victories, how far you’ve come, where you are and where you’re going. Remember, be gentle with yourself on tough days. All you need is within you, use what you have and what you are at the moment.
6. Limit the Time You Spend with People Who Bring You Down
Toxic relationships drain energy and diminish self-worth. While it’s not always possible to cut ties completely, setting boundaries can help protect your mental health. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and don’t feel guilty for prioritizing your well-being.
7. Do Not Be Ashamed to Cry
Crying is a natural, healthy way to release pent-up emotions. Whether it’s triggered by stress, sadness, or even joy, shedding tears can provide relief and a sense of catharsis. Embrace your emotions without shame, crying doesn’t make you weak; it’s a sign that you’re human. Cry and weep as much as you want, after that you become stronger and better.
8. Spend Time Out in the Sun
Sunlight is a natural mood booster. Exposure to sunlight increases the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone, which helps combat feelings of depression and anxiety. Take a walk, sit on your porch, or simply open your curtains to let natural light flood in. A few minutes of sunshine can make a world of difference.
9. Keep Yourself Clean
Maintaining hygiene is an underrated aspect of mental wellness. A warm shower, clean clothes, and a tidy environment can have a profound impact on your mood and self-esteem. Start with small steps, like washing your face or brushing your teeth, and build a routine that helps you feel refreshed and presentable.
10. Start a Small Hobby
Engaging in a hobby, no matter how small, provides a creative outlet and a break from daily stressors. Whether it’s gardening, painting, knitting, or playing an instrument, hobbies help you stay in the moment and cultivate joy. Choose an activity that excites you and fits into your schedule. I used my times to make natural hair products for my hair, it seemed pointless but I loved ever bit of it.
11. Remember Not to Take Life Too Seriously
Life’s unpredictability is part of its beauty. While it’s important to strive for goals and overcome challenges, it’s equally crucial to embrace humor and let go of perfectionism. Laugh at your mistakes, find joy in simple pleasures, and remember that it’s okay to stumble along the way. Do not forget that sorrows, failures, dissappointments and loss are all part of life and everything will eventually pass.
12. If You Are Waiting for Something, Wait with Grace
The way you wait is crucial, whether you are waiting for a breakthrough or you dont even know what you are waiting for, make sure you exercise patience without grudge or constant complaint. Use the waiting period as an opportunity to learn, grow, or simply rest. Trust that good things come in time.
Bonus tip;
Additionally, If your mental instability is caused by an occuring outward situation like verbal or physical abuse, bullying, addiction etc. Please do not keep it to yourself, get help from the authorities or talk to someone who can help.
Conclusion
Being mentally well is a process rather than a final goal. Remember that you have the strength to succeed even without treatment, and treat yourself with kindness while you work through it.
