So, you’re feeling down. Like, really down. And the last thing you want is to spill your guts to a random adult who might just say, “Have you tried drinking more water?” (Ugh, thanks Susan, but hydration won’t fix my soul.)
Good news: You don’t have to announce your struggles to the world to start feeling better. Here are 9 sneaky, science-backed, and totally doable mind tricks to help you push through, even when life feels like a bad reality show.
1. Rename That Inner Critic
That voice in your head telling you you’re not good enough? Give it a ridiculous name. Like Kevin.
Next time Kevin starts whispering, “You’re a failure,” say, “Shut up, Kevin. You’re literally a figment of my imagination.” Works like a charm.
2. Trick Your Brain With Power Poses
Stand in front of the mirror, hands on hips, like Wonder Woman. Hold it for two minutes. Feel ridiculous? Good. But your brain doesn’t know the difference, it’ll start pumping confidence-boosting chemicals anyway. Fake it till you make it.
3. Do the Opposite of What Depression Wants
Depression says: Stay in bed all day.
You say: Fine, but I’m getting up just to prove you wrong.
Doing the opposite of what your low mood wants, like blasting music and dancing for 30 seconds, throws your brain off and makes you feel (slightly) better.
4. Make a “Happy Playlist” (But Not the One You Think)
Skip the generic happy songs. Make a playlist of songs that remind you of better times, your childhood, that fun trip, the song your best friend sent you. Nostalgia is scientifically proven to boost mood.
5. Text Someone (About Anything But Your Feelings)
You don’t have to spill your soul to feel better. Just text someone a funny meme, a random question, or “Hey, remember that time we saw that squirrel steal a donut?” Connection matters, even if it’s small.
6. Turn Your Worries Into a Comedy Script
Write down what’s stressing you out, but exaggerate it into the most absurd, dramatic soap opera possible. “Oh no, my teacher gave me a B! My life is ruined! I shall now live in a cave with only WiFi and Netflix!” You’ll realize how silly some of your worries sound when taken to extremes.
7. Give Your Brain a Mini Dopamine Hit
No, not by scrolling TikTok for 4 hours. But small “wins” boost your brain chemicals. Try:
- Making your bed (Boom! Productivity queen!)
- Drinking a glass of water (Self-care goddess!)
- Stretching for 30 seconds (Elite athlete vibes!)
Tiny victories add up.
8. Make “Future You” Proud
Imagine yourself in one week, do you want her to be stuck in the same rut, or would you rather her feel even 1% better? Every tiny effort you make today is a gift to her. Future You deserves some kindness.
9. Remind Yourself: You Are Not Broken
Feeling depressed doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It means you’re human. And humans go through ups and downs. Repeat after me: “This is temporary. I am stronger than I think. Kevin is an idiot.”
Your Turn!
Which trick are you trying first? Got a funny name for your inner critic? Drop it in the comments and let’s laugh together. And hey, if today is tough, just focus on getting through this moment. You got this.