"HELP! EVERYTHING IS SAD"

Sometimes, I wake up in the morning and feel like I've been physically superglued to my bed. Okay, so before you send out a Fireman to come and peel me away from my duvet, I'm not actually superglued to my bed. I'm nowhere near arty enough to do that. Getting 'stuck' in my bed because I've excessively watched the entire first season of Stranger Things in a day? Yes. Now that sounds more like me. But, this post isn't about Stranger things. Or Barb, (but seriously, what happened to Barb?) What I am here to talk about, is some ways that may help you when you just can't seem to get yourself out of a slump, a little guide for those moments when facing the 'real world' feels like the biggest hurdle ever.

But first, let me clarify that I have never experienced or been diagnosed with depression. If you have, or even feel that you may be suffering from any form of mental illness, please seek contact with an individual that you trust and allow yourself professional guidance. This piece, unfortunately, isn't the cure for anything severe. As someone who suffers with anxiety, I assure you that I understand how frustrating it feels when you're experiencing a really heightened emotion and someone tells you to just "calm down." However, this is simply here for those times where every little problem slowly, but surely creeps up on us- and next thing we know, we're snuggled on the floor in a heap of blankets, wearing nothing but three year old pyjamas that are covered in pictures of dogs and crying, "BUT, WHY?"

...So. What do you do? 

1. You cry. Yep, that's right. I'm literally telling you to cry. I know what you're thinking, "wait, since when did Elle turn into Dr. Evil?" But trust me, crying is one of the most cathartic processes to go through when you're in this situation. Cry about cute dogs. Cry about the fact that the dreamy person with nice shoulders from a year ago didn't text you back. Cry about the fact there's only two seasons of Game of Thrones left. Cry about Barb, (okay, but really, WHERE IS SHE?) In terms of expressing emotion, society often projects that we have to remain strong, despite how we feel. As if, crying is only for 'weak' people. Well guess what, you can cry all you like. You're allowed to feel down. Never be ashamed of not constantly being your happiest self, it's almost impossible to remain predominantly upbeat and bubbly, even if people expect it of you. Look, you can even put dramatic music on. I mean look at all the Adele playlists on Spotify, I can assure you there's plenty of crying listeners on those (what do you MEAN you've never cried to 'Someone like You' after being dumped?)

2. Escapism. As an introvert, escaping into books, T.V shows and my favourite films comes naturally to me. But, it's surprising how many people I know who don't realise the benefits of it. Okay, so now probably isn't the time to finally read the 'The Capital' by Karl Marx. Rather, you should perhaps attempt to escape into light-hearted forms of entertainment that bring you nothing but happiness. Personally, I love watching Youtube videos when I'm feeling sad, there's something about the informality of it that makes it even more enjoyable. A guilty secret of mine is that I love to watch gamers like Pewdiepie and The English Simmer (but shhhh, let's pretend like I haven't seen every single video, okay? And yes, watching people play Sims MAY be one of my favourite forms of entertainment. Yep. It's definitely a thing.) Additionally, it's no secret that Netflix is like your own, personal little beacon of happiness, so take advantage of this and find your new favourite series. It may not solve your issues, but you'll feel better in no time. Regardless of what form you choose, allow your mind to relax and cease from overthinking. We all deserve a little escape from time to time (and yes, by 'little' I mean watching Clueless 32 times in one weekend. I highly recommend the experience.)

3. Nature. Yeah, I know you've probably just thought "Elle's being all weird and talking about trees again." But, it's incredible how much a nice, relaxed walk outside can brighten your entire mindset. I'm guilty of hibernating and shutting myself off from everyone when I feel low, snuggling in bed as if nothing outside the realm of my laptop or Charlie Hunnam in Sons of Anarchy actually exists. Despite the escapism we mentioned earlier, it's equally as important to reconnect with what's going on outside and understanding that a lot of problems can be solved once we've cleared our head. In the age of Social Media, it's really hard to switch off. We are constantly susceptible to drama, arguments and all sorts of intense posts. It's no wonder that our minds find it hard to slow down. I'm by no means saying that we should be ignorant to the world and switch off completely. Yet, I am putting forward the concept that constantly surrounding yourself with really intense news can be harmful for your well-being. Don't feel guilty if you need a five minute break. You're doing your best and that's okay. Do some research into 'Self Care for Activists', which gives useful information for those who truly want to make a change the world but feel overwhelmed by the process. 

Without a doubt, it's exceptionally important to take into account whether you can control what's making you feel sad. Bottling up your issues will never help, even if it appears the easier option at the time. I'm guilty of it, you're probably guilty of it. In fact, there's most likely very few people who allow themselves to wholeheartedly face every bad situation head on. Never be afraid to face your problems, to cut negative people out of your life or to detach from situations that make you uncomfortable. If you have the ability to control a situation that makes you sad, then do so. One of the best skills you can have is knowing how to remove yourself from experiences that are bringing you down.

Conclusively, I understand that in the grand scheme of the world, you may feel that 'being a bit sad' perhaps isn't at the forefront of what we should be worried about. Remember that you can acknowledge that there's extraordinary amounts of pain, injustice and suffering in the world and taking into account that you're comparatively luckily, whilst simultaneously acknowledging your own emotions. However 'small' the issue may be. You really do matter, never forget that.

Irrefutably, let me reiterate that mental health issues are not a choice. This post is purely about external factors that can be controlled, as opposed to internal aspects. However, always consider if there's anything you can possibly do to aid how you feel. Having 'me time' and taking care of yourself is essential. Bear in mind, 'me time' can be anything from spending an entire day crying at Downton Abbey Christmas specials to long walks in the woods with your dog. It's all up to you.

Mental health helplines can be found here:

• http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/pages/mental-health-helplines.aspx

• http://www.depressionuk.org/national_links.shtml

• http://www.sane.org.uk/what_we_do/support/helpline

Okay, now I'm off to snuggle up in my Sons of Anarchy jumper and cuddle my pets, whilst drinking as many Chai Tea Latte's as I possibly can, (how autumnal of me. Where are the Pumpkins already?)

Remember, your mental health and well-being is always relevant. You are important and significant.

Love, Elle