Bad Days

Every day is not going to be a good day. That is hard and frustrating, but it is real. What you can't forget is that it is also manageable. When you have a rough day, week, month or even year, it can feel like everyone and everything is stacked against you. And that can feel overwhelming and scary. So I have a few reminders for you on those hard days.

1. You are not alone! There is ALWAYS someone willing to help and listen. If you can't find a listening ear in the friends or family members or adults around you, remember that you could always call or text the crisis line at 988.

2. Remember that the bad doesn't always last. Sadly, the good doesn't either. Life is never going to be all good or all bad, but staying open to the experience and curious about what is coming next is important. Think of it like a rollercoaster ride. You choose to get on the ride knowing that there are going to be thrilling up's and scary down's and unexpected twists and turns, but in the end, when you look back on it you enjoy the journey. Trying to approach life with that mindset can help.

3. Do more of what helps and less of what hurts. This can be a hard one to think about, but it is SO IMPORTANT! There are things that help you to feel better when you are having bad days. We don't always stop and do those things, but we can and we should. That might mean getting some extra sleep, listening to music, talking with friends, laughing, going for a walk, or eating a favorite meal. No matter what it is that tends to help you, when you're having those tough days, do more of those things. And, at the same time, avoid doing more of what hurts you. Don't scroll endlessly on social media or go down a rabbit hole focusing on those who have hurt you, don't numb out, don't watch, read or listen to upsetting stories for endless hours. By setting those limits, you better protect your heart and your mind.

Remember that I am here if you want to talk about life and how you're doing in this journey of all of the up's and down's.