Top 10 Ways to Lift Your Mood

1. Socialize – Getting out with other people may be the last thing you want to do, but forcing yourself to be with others gets you out of your own head and away from depressing self-centered thoughts.

2. Pamper – While self absorbed thinking is bad, self care for the body is very, very good. Go somewhere new, get a manicure, pedicure, haircut, or buy yourself something new to wear. Don’t go overboard on expense or you’ll have something new to be sad about.

3. Give – Giving things or time to others will help you realize how fortunate you are. Clean out a closet and take your old clothes to a friend or a shelter. Bake cookies for the neighbor kid.

4. Laugh – For me it’s Dumb and Dumber. You just can’t be blue and watch that film because it’s so silly. Laughing creates endorphins and improves your immune system.

5. Volunteer - Sign up for a volunteer shift at a hospital, library, or humane society. Again, you’re getting out of your own head and away from your own problems, if only for a little while.

6. Live NOW – Newsflash: the past is over. If you’re holding a grudge, or conversely, worrying about something that might happen someday… try to focus on right now. Exercise or meditation are both good techniques for getting into the present moment.

7. Walk – This is free. Listen to the sounds of nature, count your footsteps, people watch – anything to switch gears in your mind.

8. Talk – Call a friend who has a positive attitude. Warning: this is not a pass to dump on your friend. It’s okay to tell them you’re feeling blue, but the idea is to lift yourself, not bring someone else down to your level. Ask lots of questions.

9. Meditate – Sometimes it’s hard to sit with yourself when you’re down. You’d rather just turn on the TV and eat corn chips. Guided audio tapes can be very helpful when you don’t have the discipline to calm your own mind or turn off the sad thoughts.

10. Create - Cook, write, paint, tinker, organize drawers. Play loud, fun music and dance around your living room. Anything you make can alter your mood. Plus, it’s something for your brain to glom onto rather than your depression.