Listen "You Can Stay Positive IF You Want To !"
Episode Synopsis
Acknowledge Your Feelings: Before one can process or change feelings, it's essential to acknowledge them. It's okay to feel sadness, anger, fear, or any other emotion. Give yourself permission to feel without judgment.
Reframe Negative Thoughts: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) emphasizes the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By reframing negative or irrational beliefs, it's possible to change emotional responses and actions.
Control the Controllables: Focus on what you can control rather than what you can't. This helps reduce feelings of helplessness and can shift your focus to proactive behaviors.
Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help keep you grounded, reduce anxiety, and allow you to live in the present moment. They can also increase your awareness of negative thought patterns.
Stay Connected: Social support is vital. Talking to someone you trust, whether it's a friend, family member, or therapist, can offer comfort and perspective.
Limit Exposure to Negative Triggers: This could mean taking breaks from the news, social media, or even certain individuals that intensify feelings of despair or hopelessness.
Establish a Routine: Keeping a semblance of normalcy can provide a sense of purpose and structure.
Practice Self-compassion: Be gentle with yourself. Recognize that everyone has limits, and it's okay to ask for help when needed.
Engage in Activities You Enjoy: Doing things you love can serve as a distraction and boost your mood, even if it's something simple like reading a book or listening to music.
Seek Professional Help: If feelings of despair persist, it's crucial to seek the help of a therapist or counselor. They can provide coping strategies, perspective, and additional resources.
Limit Substance Use: While some may turn to substances like alcohol or drugs as a way to cope, these can exacerbate negative emotions and harm mental health in the long run.
Stay Active: Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Even a short walk can make a difference.
Focus on Gratitude: Keeping a gratitude journal or simply reflecting on what you're grateful for can shift the focus from what's lacking or challenging to what's abundant in your life.
Educate Yourself: Understand that it's normal to have a range of emotions during hard times. Familiarizing yourself with common reactions to stress can normalize your experience.
Remember, it's okay to seek help when you need it. Resilience doesn't mean going through hard times without ever feeling down; it means bouncing back in the face of adversity. Everyone's journey through difficult periods is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. It's essential to find what works best for you and lean on support systems when needed.
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