11 How to Make Yourself Feel Better When You are Feeling Down

We all go through hard times. Nobody is happy 24/7 and if you think they are, it’s only an act. That being said, there are definitely times when I need a hug. It’s a specific feeling that I only really get when I’m upset and exhausted, sometimes even very sad.

I know you’ve been there before, too. It’s not uncommon to feel this way – even as an adult. As we get older, however, there isn’t always someone readily available to give us hugs and make us feel better. Most of that responsibility lies with you. You need to learn how to make yourself feel better.

That being said, our support systems aren’t always available. They have their own lives to deal with in addition to their work or school or other obligations. And that means sometimes we have to figure out how to fix our upset mood ourselves.

Lucky for us, there are tons of different ways to do this. Whenever you’re feeling down, just do one of these things and you’ll start feeling better in no time!

# Go outside

Fresh air and vitamin D can only do you some good when you’re upset. I know you may not want to get up and go outside, but it’ll be worth it. Enjoy the fresh air and take in nature. It’ll help immensely!

# Get some exercise in

One thing that can actually boost your mood is exercising! Those endorphins can help you feel way better right away. The tricky part is disciplining yourself enough to just go do it even when you’re sad.

# Talk to someone close to you

Venting is a great way to feel better. Oftentimes, other people can help us see that some things aren’t worth being upset about. So call up some friends and get to talking.

# Eat mood-boosting foods

Yes, there is such a thing as food that makes you happier! And no, I’m not talking about your favorite chocolate dessert. Foods like nuts, seeds, salmon, eggs, cheese, and even pineapples have been proven to make you happier by boosting levels of serotonin – the happy chemical – in your blood.

# Watch a funny movie

Laughing will always make you feel better. I know when I’m feeling like I need a hug, a great comedy always makes it better. Laughing away my cares can not only keep me distracted, but smiling and laughing naturally tricks your brain into making you happier.

# Read a good book

Books are great for a lot of reasons and one of them is that they can make you feel better. When you immerse yourself into the lives of characters and forget about the world around you, you’ll immerge feeling much better.

# Listen to uplifting music

Music is beyond powerful when it comes to making you feel happier. Listening to an upbeat song or two can actually alter your brain chemistry to make you feel happier.

# Write down your concerns in a journal

Externally processing the emotions you’re feeling can be really important. If you’re upset, write down what’s bothering you. Seeing the words laid out in front of you can help you digest them and find a solution.

# Take a nap

Naps make everything better in general. However, if you’re feeling sad, you might just need more sleep. Sleeping also helps your subconscious process information and emotions so you’ll wake up feeling refreshed.

# Get crafty

Being creative is an awesome way to combat a bad mood. Creating something with your hands is unlike anything else out there. Whenever I feel like I need a hug, I take out my watercolors and get to work. I always feel better after.

# Go out to eat with friends

Combining great food with even better people will be sure to lift your spirits. Not only will the yummy food make you feel better, but laughing and joking with friends will distract you, too.