The post “47 Ways To Help A Bad Mental Health Day” was first published in March, 2020.

I haven’t posted a blog post in two weeks, which was really the basis for this post today. I was struggling with a lot of overwhelm that I’m working on pulling myself out of with the help of a therapy appointment I had last week and the work that I have to do on my part. I felt like I was reaching a breaking point with an ongoing preoccupation I had developed with trying to save everyone in the world coupled with a simmering rage that I felt at the world of social media and it was just too much for me. I needed a break.

So even though I sat in front of my computer trying to come up with something to write, I just couldn’t. Instead, I took it easy, played video games, cuddled with Donut, and ate Trader Joe’s mac and cheese. I sat with Miles while he played and worked on being present in the moment. I slowed down a bit. All this got me wondering what other people do when they are having a bad mental health day.

I sourced these suggestions from my community on Instagram (thank you all so much!), and I noticed a couple of things: 1) I got a LOT of responses and 2) so many of the responses were the same. Take a look and see if you can relate or if you see something you may want to try next time you have a tough day. Some responses may be contradictory and that’s ok — it’s about what works for YOU.

I will advise checking in with yourself repeatedly throughout this process. If your bad mental health day turns into a bad mental health week or month, it might be time for you to look into getting some outside help (or affordable therapy). For example, one of the suggestions on this list is to take it easy and give yourself a break, which could be used to ignore a more serious issue over time (which I know all too well). It’s fine to take it easy for a day or two, but if you’re letting responsibilities or deadlines fall through the cracks, it’s time to figure out a different solution.

It should also go without saying that there is a spectrum of what constitutes a “bad mental health day.” These suggestions are for those that are on the milder side. If you’re really struggling, please consider getting help or calling an appropriate helpline.

1. Watch something funny

2. Talk to someone close to you

3. Cry

4. Meditate

5. Listen to sad music

6. Listen to happy music

7. Get out in nature

8. Shower

9. Nap

10. Acupuncture

11. Massage

12. Hug a pet

13. Focus on self kindness to break the cycle

14. Order takeout

15. Go to sleep early

16. Remind yourself “this too shall pass”

17. Take things easy

18. Make a therapy appointment

19. Read in as cozy a place as possible

20. Watch ASMR videos

21. Give yourself space or reach out to trusted friends

22. Journal

23. Play video games

24. Take a bath

25. Cuddle in blankets

26. Coffee

27. Buy something small that makes you happy

28. Deep condition your hair

29. Wear comfy pajamas

30. Exercise — yoga, running, whatever helps you

31. Draw

32. Do one thing from your to do list

33. Listen to a podcast

34. Anything not isolating

35. Weighted blankets

36. Facemasks

37. Let yourself be unproductive for a bit

38. Eat a great dessert

39. Alone time

40. Make food with lots of veggies

41. Bake something tasty

42. Coffee date with a friend

43. Let yourself feel it

44. Longer walks with increased focus on present surroundings

45. Write a gratitude list

46. Clean

47. Take a break from your phone

Did I leave anything out? What are some ways that you help a bad mental health day?