Being human can be a tough gig. When life feels overwhelming, it’s essential to find strategies that can help you navigate through difficult times. I hope this post offers some useful insights and a touch of comfort.
Rest and Recovery
While it may feel counterintuitive, rest is crucial when dealing with life’s hardships. In a culture that constantly demands performance and action, rest can be a powerful antidote. Taking a break allows your mind to rejuvenate, bringing clarity and creativity that can help you tackle challenges with a fresh perspective.
Seek Support: Best Online Therapy Services
It’s okay to seek extra support when navigating through tough times. Therapy can be a valuable resource, offering tools and perspectives to help you manage life’s challenges. However, accessing therapy can be difficult for many due to financial constraints, lack of availability, or other barriers.
In 2020, over 28% of Americans could not receive the mental health care they needed, often due to living in “therapy deserts” where there are not enough mental health providers. Online therapy can bridge this gap, providing access to mental health support through phone calls, video chats, emails, and text messages. Research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as face-to-face sessions.
Here are some recommended online therapy services vetted by the editors at Verywell Mind:
– Best for Availability: BetterHelp
– Most Comprehensive: Talkspace
– Best for Psychiatry: Talkiatry
– Best for Anxiety and Depression: Brightside
– Best Without Insurance: Open Path Collective
If you’re a person of color seeking therapy, consider resources like Inclusive Therapists, Therapy for Black Girls, or Latinx Therapy.
For the LGBTQIA+ community, the National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network is a valuable resource.
Do Your Own Investigating
Reading can be a powerful tool for self-compassion and understanding. Here are some recommended reads:
– No Bad Parts by Richard C. Schwartz – for exploring self-compassion.
– Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey and Pleasure Activism by adrienne maree brown – for thoughts on hardship, anger, and coping.
– Tattoos on the Heart by Gregory Boyle – for understanding the power of boundless compassion.
– What My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo – for insights on healing from complex PTSD.
Immediate Actions
Sometimes, you need quick strategies to help you in the moment. Consider:
– Calling a friend or loved one.
– Spending time outside.
– Moving your body.
– Practicing breathing exercises.
– Listening to music that you enjoy.
Finding Meaning and Moving Forward
Navigating life’s ups and downs isn’t easy, but challenges can offer meaning and growth. Some therapy modalities focus on how your past shapes your present, helping you find meaning in your hardships. While no one should have to endure pain to gain wisdom, using your emotions constructively can lead to positive change.
Consider how you can channel your anger, frustration, and sadness into something constructive. Create art, offer a helping hand to others, and reflect on the story of your life. Imagine the ending you long for and start writing it today.
💙 Robyn
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