The Toolbox at LisaKiftTherapy.com

There’s no question that it’s been a tough couple of years for a lot of people – on a lot of levels.  Whether it be perceived or real loss of finances, job instability, unrest in the world or whatever other personal circumstances – our collective psyche is showing signs of distress and now more than ever it’s important to practice self care as we weather the storms we are facing.

When you’re in the middle of stressful events it can be easy to slide into a place of hopelessness.  The problem with “hopelessness” is that it can keep you stuck.  I encourage you to stay focused on staying as positive as you can.

Here are 3 mental health tips to stay upbeat when times are tough:

• Practice Gratitude: Get in the habit of thinking of something you’re grateful for every day.  Think of what you do have vs. what you don’t.   One way to do this is to keep a “gratitude journal” by your bedside and jot down a sentence or two at night.  Another idea is to create a morning ritual when having your coffee or tea to spend a few minutes considering the positive things in your life, no matter how mundane they seem to you.

• Focus Energy on Important Relationships: At the end of the day, what really matters the most to you?  When challenged to consider this question, many people would say that the important people in their lives are what really matter.  Nurture your relationships whether they be family or friends.  Regardless of whether you have one special relationship or many – pay attention to them and let them know you care about them.

• Stay Moving: Get exercise of some kind to keep the feel-good brain chemistry active.  Run, go to the gym or do sit ups on your bedroom floor.  Even better, take a walk with somebody you care about!  Not only will you move your body but you will have an opportunity to connect with a valued person in your life.

Keep in mind, the above tools will not necessarily work for everyone.  If you have clinical depression, it may be pretty hard to motivate to do any of them.  If you suspect this is the case, please find a local therapist in your area.

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Lisa Brookes Kift is a psychotherapist and creator of The Toolbox at LisaKiftTherapy.com: A Resource for Emotional and Relationship Health.  See more mental health tips and tools by Lisa.

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