Every year at the beginning of September, I hit what I (not so) affectionately call ‘the September Slump.’ It’s just a time of change; I’ve finally processed the new school year, the end of summer, the beginning of pumpkin spice EVERYTHING. It also marks the anniversary of some sad events in my life, making the first week of September a mournful one as well. Bottom line: it’s just not a fun time. Sometimes, the slump even lasts through part of October. Unfortunately, this was one of those years.
Each year, when I realize that the slump has hit, I have to come up with some ways to pull myself out of it, or at least manage it until it passes. Looking back on what I did this year, I realized how much some of those things actually helped. I’m sure everyone has some slump-like times in their life, so I thought I’d share a few of my new favorite ways to combat it. Hopefully, you can add one or two of them to your list of remedies.
1. Take a bath.
Steam, warm water, bubbles. Nothing is more relaxing than spending some time by yourself in a warm place.
2. Drink a warm beverage.
My go to is herbal tea, but any warm drink will do; coffee, hot chocolate, etc. I can’t really explain why this one works, but there is just something about a hot drink that relaxes me and makes me happy.
3. Use essential oils.
Their effects are powerful, believe it or not. I use this one both day and night. Before bed, I mix a few drops of peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil (almond oil, jojoba oil, cocoa butter, coconut oil, etc.) and rub it on my wrists. The scent soothes any anxieties or discomforts that I have so I am able to sleep. If I feel sad or anxious during the day, I pop open a bottle and take a whiff or put a few drops into my diffuser. My current daytime favorite is one called “Be Happy,” which is a mix of citrus, floral, and peppermint oils. It’s bright, yet soothing at the same time (and makes your room smell great).
4. Have a jam sesh.
Sometimes, the best way to snap yourself out of a funk is to blast some music. I usually play the most upbeat and fun songs that I have and dance around or belt the lyrics. The Summer Hits of the 2000s Pandora station is always a favorite.
5. Take a nap.
If you’re tired or stressed on top of feeling sad, let your body rest. Sleep is a great healer.
6. Do something you love. 
Take some time for yourself. Read a book. Watch a show or a movie on Netflix. Knit. Find someone to throw a ball around with. Whatever brings you happiness, make sure you take the time to do it. Regularly.
7. Talk to someone. 
For some, this is harder than it seems. I’m introverted, so sharing my feelings can be difficult. Find someone to be your go to person - your best friend, significant other, mom, a counselor, etc – and then go to them when you need to. If you don’t have somebody like that yet, that’s okay. I don’t either. It usually has to be someone you really trust, and that can take time to develop. In that case, write. Journal, write a poem. Get your thoughts and feelings out of your head. Keep looking for that person you can trust no matter what, and don’t be afraid to open up a little if someone shows interest or care.
8. Finally, and most importantly, don’t give up. 
Get out of bed every morning. Take a shower. Brush your teeth. Eat. Go to class or work. See your friends. Do your homework. Schedule time for activities or time on your own if you need to, but don’t spend your whole day in bed or locked in your room or house. You have to keep going. This is not the end. (If you start spending most of your time in bed and don’t want to/it becomes hard to get out of it, go see a therapist or a counselor.)
Life can be hard. Don't let it get the best of you. Find what makes you feel better and help pull yourself out of its slumps.
