Sometimes life just gets hard. Whether you're feeling blue due to family reasons, school, relationships, or even just because the weather is looking grim, it's important to try to stay positive when things get tough. In the face of adversity, it's always great to have a game plan. So here are some steps that might help!

1. Identify exactly why you're feeling down

Everyone has a different perception of what can be considered a stressor. But to you, what is causing the most stress in your life right now?

If it was a fight, then perhaps consider why that fight happened.

If your grades at school are stressing you out, then consider what you can do to improve them.

Is the weather outside depressing? Put on some light music that makes you happy!

2. Talk it out

Talk to someone about how you feel. Discussing your worries with someone that you trust is always a good idea. They will be understanding of your situation and they'll support you!

3. Music!

Grab your earbuds and put on your favorite playlist! Listening to music that you enjoy will help you to stop concentrating on the negatives, and calm you to help you focus on the positives.

4. Surround yourself with good people

It's important to surround yourself with the people who make you happiest and help you to be the best person that you can be. Sometimes when we feel sad, it's common to also feel a little lonely. It's great in the cliché sense to "put yourself out there" in order to bring out the sunshine!

5. List the things that you're grateful for

A little thing that I like to do is list the things that I'm grateful for. It makes me much more self-aware of how I'm currently feeling. Doing it once or twice a day is a good way to gauge how your mood is improving!

6. Treat yourself!

A little Ben and Jerry's goes a long way.

7. Always remember: your feelings are valid

It's important to remember that you have the right to feel the way that you do. With that in mind, go forth and be awesome!