Sometimes in life, we have moments where it seems like happiness is an unachievable goal. It’s like we are laying on our backs looking up at happiness, but there is only one thing getting in the way; everything. BUT THAT IS OKAY! Because we are going to walk through what it takes to get up on your feet again and bob and weave through everything life throws at you. You can do it! I believe in you!

1. GET SOME SUNSHINE!

It has been proven that sunlight has many benefits. Ever heard of serotonin? It is a chemical in your brain that has a major role in your mood. While too much sun is dangerous, a moderate amount of sunlight will bring up those levels of serotonin and boost that mood right up!

2. Exercise is always nice!

Now I will be the first to admit that I am super lazy. But I have found that a nice round of yoga is just what it takes to relieve that stress and bring a smile back to my face. Yoga isn’t your thing? No problem! Some people enjoy running, pumping iron, swimming etc.; the list goes on and on. Even a slow and steady walk will get the job done. Remember, listen to your body! Never do something that you think will strain you or make you uncomfortable. You are always in control of your body!

4. Write it out.

Walmart always has cheap notebooks. Fill it up! And when that one is done, fill up another! Writing is an awesome way to relieve stress. It is also good practice! Journaling is not something that has to be correlated with anger and sadness. Write when you’re having a good day too!

5. Find a supportive group of friends or mentors.

Who you hang out with has a lot to do with how you feel. Sometimes when we hang out with friends, we gradually change ourselves to act more like them. This is normal and does not make you fake; it makes you human. If you start to notice that your friends are extremely negative and you start to share all of the same thoughts, it could be a sign that it’s time to change your circle. I know, I know. It’s hard to put yourself out there. But if you know it might help, it could be worth a shot.

6. Pray about it! (Or don’t if it isn’t your thing)

I find that praying is therapeutic. I have also learned that I become very impatient when I don’t get what I want. But I assure you that God always has a bigger plan than you and I. We learn in church that He made the lame man walk and the blind man see. If he can do that, then I know he can help this poor little broke college student, right?

This is only a few small things that have helped me pick myself off the ground when I was feeling hopeless. But by no means am I a professional, and I know that these things aren’t going to help everyone. If you or someone you know is depressed, I will suggest your school’s counseling center. They are there for you and almost always free. If you are a student at Western Carolina University like myself, we have an amazing CAPS team (Counseling & Psychological Services) that can be found in the Bird building.

http://www.wcu.edu/experience/health-and-wellness/...