To ask what makes you happy/things you do to cheer up

[BramRang]

2018 was shit: 3 miscarriages, 2 grandparents died, dp's grandpa died, an old friend from school died, DP moved away/travelled a lot for work (making all the losses harder), I tried and failed education yet again, had a huge anxiety flare up and my car gave up on me between Xmas and new year.

I just can't see how 2019 could be worse, so I'm making a huge effort to do some little things to boost my mood/be positive/move forward. I am starting grief counselling in two weeks and am hoping to get some anxiety specific therapy too once I can face the GP - so I'm covered from the professional help perspective. I think I need to treat myself? Maybe make some new habits? I honestly don't know.

What do you do, or what do others do for you, that make you feel happy when you're a bit down? I'm not looking for cures for my grief etc, just some things that might help boost me up when I'm having a good day already. Small things, big things, things to look forward to, new habits, etc?

I'll take whatever you've got

No wonder you’re feeling anxious, that’s a huge amount to cope with in a short space of time. Seriously, it may be worth your while just giving yourself space and time to feel whatever you feel - it’s hard but so important to give yourself time to recover from all of that. Counselling can help that process but it sounds like you’re feeling the way anyone would after such a hard time.

So, anything that gives you time, headspace and care - even having a nice coffee in a coffee shop, pottering about the garden or going for a walk. Or just resting at home, watch some tv, rest and relax. Your whole system has been stretched, give yourself time to heal.

jellycats thank you for your kind reply. I am giving myself time, I've actually moved back in with my parents for the additional support while DP is away. I do feel like I need to do or change something, though - just a small step - and when I do have a good day (or even just an ok day), I feel a bit lost with what to do with it. That probably doesn't make any sense!

Exercise makes all the difference in the world. I force myself out for a run, or a walk if I can't run (injury for example) and it makes the world look 100 times better.

Also cooking healthy food from scratch is very satisfying. Ditto a few days off booze.

Plus a really good book, scented candle flickering away, a nice bath, or seeing proper good old friends over a glass or several of wine.

Look after yourself OP x

Cooking is a great idea, ivegotthree, thank you. I need to stop with the freezer food at the moment and make something that makes me feel good.

What do you really enjoy doing? For me just being able to sit and do some sewing in peace and quiet gives me time out from my thoughts, do you have something you enjoy that you’ve got out of the habit of doing?