Nobody wants to feel bad all the time, or purposely wants to have an always-negative outlook on things. However, some people have trouble letting go of things or trying not to think about something that bothers them. It may be something that happened to you that made you sad or mad, or you may be worrying about something that may or may not happen to you. Whatever negative emotions you are feeling, sometimes it can be hard to get over them.
Depression
People who suffer from depression often have trouble letting go of negative emotions or feelings no matter how hard they try. In fact, one of the main symptoms of depression is consistently feeling sad or empty. There are several forms of depression such as major depression, chronic or persistent depression, premenstrual disorder, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder. The most common signs of all forms of depression include:
- Feeling sad or depressed for no obvious reason for longer than two weeks
- Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping more or less than usual)
- Chronic fatigue
- Inability to make decisions or concentrate
- Guilt or worthless feelings
- Memory lapses
- Lack of interest in favorite activities
- Isolating yourself
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Those with bipolar disorder will also have periods of extreme manic episodes including feeling invincible, not sleeping, having more energy than usual, reckless behaviors, and flightiness
Anxiety Disorders
Feelings of anxiety are common but those who have anxiety disorders are unable to stop the anxious feelings and may worry constantly about everything of just obsess over one thing all the time. Those who have an anxiety disorder will usually suffer from:
- Sleep disturbances (not being able to sleep or stay asleep)
- Dizziness, sweating, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath
- Chronic worrying or stressing out over something or everything
- Weight loss
- Lack of appetite
- Not being able to concentrate
- Feeling more irritable than usual for no reason
- Racing thoughts
- Feelings that something bad is going to happen
What You Can Do
There are many things you can do to get rid of negativity, but there are some common ways that are proven to help. First of all, exercise is a powerful motivator because it increases feel-good chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin. Meditation is also an excellent way to get rid of the anxiety and blues. This may seem overly obvious, but another way to feel better is to think positively. While it difficult to do when you are stressed out or depressed, try to take the time to think about the good things in your life and write them down. Start a positivity journal to keep yourself accountable in consistently thinking about the positives in your life, or what you are hopeful for. If you feel like you may need extra help with battling negative thoughts and emotions, talk to someone. There are online therapists and counselors available 24/7 with no appointment necessary, in the comfort of your own space, or whenever you’re on the go.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post and we have been compensated through BetterHelp.com.
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
