Feeling like you’re not quite yourself is a common experience for many people. Whether it’s due to stress, anxiety, depression or another reason, this feeling can be overwhelming and difficult to shake. However, there are things you can do to help yourself get back on track. In this article, we’ll explore some tips for what to do when you don’t feel like yourself.
Identify the cause
The first step in getting back to feeling like yourself is to identify what is causing you to feel this way. Are you primarily stressed? Depressed? Feeling stuck or unmotivated? Understanding what’s behind your feeling can help you take steps to address the issue.
Journaling
One way to identify the cause of your feelings is to start journaling regularly. Each day, take a few minutes to write down how you’re feeling, what’s been happening in your life, and any thoughts or concerns you have. Over time, patterns may emerge that help you understand what’s causing your feelings. Additionally, journaling can be a cathartic experience that helps you process your emotions.
Therapy
If you’re having a hard time identifying the cause of your feelings, or if you’ve identified the cause but don’t know how to address it, consider speaking with a therapist. A therapist can help you unpack your feelings and develop coping strategies to address them. There are many different types of therapy to choose from, from traditional talk therapy to more specialized modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Take care of your body
Often, when we don’t feel like ourselves, our self-care routines fall by the wayside. However, taking care of your body is an important part of getting back to feeling like yourself.
Exercise
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to boost your mood and reduce stress. Even a short walk around the block or a few minutes of stretching can help release endorphins that improve your mood.
Healthy eating habits
Eating a balanced diet is also crucial for your mental health. Focus on eating fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Sleep hygiene
Lastly, make sure you’re getting enough sleep each night. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night, and try to establish a consistent sleep schedule.
Find joy in simple pleasures
When you’re not feeling like yourself, it can be challenging to engage with things that used to bring you joy. However, making an effort to find joy in simple pleasures can help improve your mood and increase your overall sense of wellbeing.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness practices like meditation or deep breathing can help you stay present in the moment and find pleasure in simple things. Try taking a few deep breaths when you’re feeling overwhelmed or spending a few minutes each day meditating or practicing yoga.
Pursue hobbies and interests
Engaging in hobbies or interests can help you find a sense of purpose and joy. Try out a new hobby or activity that has always interested you, or reconnect with an old passion that you haven’t had time for recently.
Connect with loved ones
Finally, spend time connecting with loved ones. Even if you don’t feel up to socializing, reaching out to friends and family members can help lessen feelings of isolation and improve your overall mood. Consider scheduling a coffee date, phone call, or video chat with someone you care about.
Seek help if necessary
If you’re still struggling to get back to feeling like yourself despite your efforts, it may be time to seek professional help. This could include speaking with a therapist or psychiatrist, or exploring treatment options like medication or EMDR.
Remember, there is no shame in seeking help when you need it. Everyone experiences difficult times, and there are resources and professionals available to help you navigate yours.
Conclusion
Feeling like you’re not quite yourself can be a frustrating and overwhelming experience. However, by identifying the cause, taking care of your body, finding joy in simple pleasures, and seeking help when necessary, you can start to feel more like yourself again. Remember, self-care is an ongoing process – be kind to yourself and continue prioritizing your wellbeing.
FAQs
- Q: What causes feelings of not being like yourself?
- A: There are many different reasons someone might feel this way, including stress, anxiety, depression, and life changes.
- Q: How can I identify the cause of my feelings?
- A: Journaling or speaking with a therapist can help you identify the cause of your feelings.
- Q: What can I do to take care of my body?
- A: Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and prioritize getting enough sleep each night.
- Q: How can I find joy in simple pleasures when I don’t feel like myself?
- A: Mindfulness practices, pursuing hobbies and interests, and connecting with loved ones can all help you find joy and purpose.
- Q: When should I seek professional help?
- A: If you’re still struggling to get back to feeling like yourself despite your efforts, it may be time to seek professional help.
References
1. American Psychological Association. (2018). Stress effects on the body. http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/stress-body.aspx
2. Harvard Health Publishing. (2018). Exercise is an all-natural treatment to fight depression. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/exercise-mental-health-and-depression-2019102418106
3. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Psychotherapies. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies/index.shtml