Major life changes. If you’re going through a period of upheaval, such as getting out of a relationship (or getting into one), changing your job, moving to a new place, etc. , you’re probably experiencing stress. New situations and life changes aren’t very easy to adjust to, but you will make it if you keep the faith and have a positive, hopeful attitude. Family. If your family life is in disarray, you may feel upset, sad, or anxious. Perhaps you have a dysfunctional family, suicidal parents or have to take care of an elderly or sick family member. Work/School. Work or school obligations are a huge source of stress for most people. If you feel unappreciated at work or school, or stuck at a dead-end job, you may feel like your life sucks. Social life. If you’re feeling isolated or disconnected, you may feel like your life sucks. Or, if you feel anxious about meeting new people or hanging out in social situations, you may experience stress if you have to do these things.
For example, you might notice that you feel most upset and sad when you’re at work. You may feel unacknowledged and unappreciated. You may feel overworked. This situation sucks. Ask yourself what elements you have control over. You can’t control whether others appreciate or acknowledge your contributions. However, you might be able to be more assertive about owning your accomplishments. You can control whether you say “yes” to every project that crosses your desk. You can also control whether you look for a different job in a place that might be a better fit for you. Find ways to empower yourself, and you may find that you feel like your life sucks less. Try to come up with a list of things that you can do to help you own your situation. For example, if you feel overworked, you might consider talking to your boss about your workload or negotiating a pay raise. If you don’t feel appreciated, you might consider looking for a job in a place with a better corporate environment. Make a list of specific, concrete actions that you can take.
If you answer yes to any of these questions, it could provide insights into why you think your life sucks.
Women are twice as likely to become depressed than men. Changes in hormone levels can also cause depression. [9] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Mental Health Informational website from U. S. government focused on the understanding and treatment of mental illness. Go to source Changes in the brain may cause depression. Studies of people with depression have revealed that the brain undergoes a physical change. [10] X Research source
This is scary, I’ve never done it before. = I have a great chance to do something different. I’ll never get better at this. = Let me try this one more time. This is too big of a change. = Let’s try something new and exciting.
For example, if you’re worried about being unemployed, remember that your job status doesn’t define you as a person. Consider this an opportunity to pursue a new direction, or search for meaningful work in another area, such as volunteering or focusing on your family. If you’re feeling like your life sucks because you’re being bullied, remember that bullies take their own insecurities out on others. Their actions only reflect on them, not on you. Inform the proper authorities, such as your parents, a counselor, or principal, and stay strong.
Try meeting a friend or family member for a brief coffee at first. Make more phone calls to friends and loved ones. Don’t expect to enjoy it at first, or to be the star of a party. The key is baby steps back into a social life. Be friendly with strangers you meet throughout the day. Don’t shy away from small talk. Talking with strangers can boost your happiness. Join a club or taking a class to meet new people.
How can I test if this idea is valid or not? Was this always true? Are there any exceptions? What is the missing part of the picture here?
Aerobic exercises are particularly effective. Try working out for 30 minutes on a treadmill, or going for a 30-minute walk. [14] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Yoga may provide relief as well. Try eating fish, drinking plenty of fluids, whole grains and fruit.
Be the change you wish to see. (Mahatma Gandhi) Action is the antidote to despair. (Joan Baez) None but ourselves can free our minds. (Bob Marley) It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness. (Eleanor Roosevelt)
Some people find meaning by participating in a religion or nurturing their spiritual side. Learning more about philosophy might also help you figure out more about your personal worldview. On a more intimate scale, the most meaningful parts of your life might be your relationships, your work, your art, or something entirely different.
Think you have nothing to offer? Find a homeless shelter in your area and volunteer for a few hours a week. You’ll see that every bit of time you can spare is absolutely needed.
Cognitive therapy has been shown to be as effective as anti-depressants to improve mild to moderate depression. Cognitive therapy is as effective as anti-depressants in preventing relapses. The benefits of cognitive therapy often appear in weeks. Chose a cognitive behavioral therapist and book an appointment if this option appeals to you. Begin with an online search of therapists in your area, try the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies website.
The therapist will employ a number of techniques including empathetic listening, role-playing and communication analysis. Find an interpersonal therapist if you feel this is a good option for you. You can do an online search for an interpersonal therapist in your area. Psychology Today has a large directory.
Family therapy is particularly effective for individuals with marriage and family issues. Find a family therapist and book an appointment if this option appeals to you. Again you can begin your search online. The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists is a valuable resource.
Find an acceptance and commitment therapist and book an appointment if this option appeals to you. Again you can begin your search online. The Association for Contextual Behavioral Science is a good place to start. [23] X Research source
Find out if the therapist is certified in your state, and if they are certified in the specialty you are seeking. Ask how much the therapist charges per session, if they charge according to your income and if there is a charge for the first visit (there may or may not be). Ask how often you will see the therapist (once a week or more frequently), how long the sessions are, and if there are any limitations on confidentiality.
Sadness or depressed mood. Change in weight. Fatigue. Insomnia. Thoughts of death or suicidal thoughts. Lab work may be used by the doctor to rule out physical causes for depression.
Some medicines prescribed for depression include Paxil, Lexapro, Zoloft and Prozac. Different medications work differently for different people, but thee medicines will usually take full effect in approximately one month. [25] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
