When All You Want To Do Is Cry

Life is hard. Does it feel like you have taken on more than you can handle? Do your friends and coworkers cause unwanted drama? Does your job get harder every day? All of this stress can drop your spirits in an instant. Don't know what to do when you've just had it with life? Try one of these 5 solutions:

1. Watch a sappy movie.

Now, watching a sappy movie this isn't necessarily a substitution for crying. It is more of an excuse. If you're anything like me, finding a movie to trigger the tears is not very difficult. Netflix's algorithm has me figured out for this one. If you need a little help, just pick any movie inspired by a Nicholas Sparks novel. Let the tears flow and release those pent up emotions.

Call your mom.

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After a bad day, there's nothing like hearing the kind and consoling words of your mom to numb the pain of life. Somehow, your mom knows exactly what to say. Whether it's stress in your relationship, job, or life in general, you can always count on your mom to pick up the phone.

Eat something bad for you.

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Cookies, chips, a Big Mac, or a sugar-filled soda. There's something that sugar and processed foods do to ease stress levels. Take a cruise to your nearest drive thru or stroll to the nearest convenience store and stock up on the sugariest and greasiest foods you can get your hands on. (After eating junk food, this stress may be back and higher because of post-binge guilt, but we're not going to talk about that.)

Get some exercise.

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Don't feel like you have to go out and join your nearest gym. Just get moving! Go on a walk, run, or bike ride. Do a workout class you find on YouTube. Exercise is scientifically proven to reduce stress and boost your mood. Give it a try!

Get some rest.

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If you have been under a lot of stress for a while, odds are you haven't been sleeping the best. Try going to bed a little earlier, aiming for 7 or more hours of uninterupted sleep. You will be amazed at how this makes you feel. Be careful to not sleep to much, or you will have the opposite effect.

None of these activities are a substitution for seeking professional help. If you or someone you know is in need of outside help, please don't hesitate to call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration hotline: 1-800-662-HELP.