3 Tips to Feel Happier as the Pandemic Continues
Tips to feel happier
Do you want tips to feel happier? As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and we are still in the middle of winter, it can seem never-ending. For some, not a lot has changed in their daily lives. However for others, they are experiencing anxiety and/or depression for the first time and find it hard to feel happy. Here are three things anyone can do to help increase their happiness.
Help others
When you help other people or volunteer it releases the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters in your brain. This automatically helps you feel better and increase your self-esteem. It also can give you a sense of belonging and purpose. Even a small act of kindness like dropping off a care package at someone’s doorstep or donating to a local nonprofit that’s important creates social connection, even during times of physical distancing.
Smile
Did you know that when you smile or even force yourself to smile it can trick your brain into releasing chemicals related to being happy? Smiling releases dopamine, serotonin and endorphins. The best thing is to find something that truly creates a smile and think about it first thing in the morning and throughout the day. Perhaps keep a photo or a note close by for a reminder.
Exercise
The benefits of exercise are always mentioned when it comes to physical health. Exercise can also help increase mental wellness and happiness naturally. If a person exercises 20 minutes a day, it can even boost happiness for up to 12 hours afterwards. This happens because endorphins are released, and that makes a person feel good.
What if that’s not enough?
Contact a doctor for a referral or find a therapist. They can work to design a custom plan for wellness. Secure treatment is over the phone or computer with telehealth, providing coping skills for grief, loss, depression and anxiety. They will work with you one-on-one to get you feeling better.
Lifeline Connections is committed to long-term mental wellness for our patients. We offer an integrated, holistic approach that includes therapy and case management. Our doctors specialize in the treatment of mental health and substance use disorders, working to solve.
