Finding Strength When You Feel Not Okay
- brittnwolf09
- Mar 8, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 28
Life is filled with ups and downs, and at times, we all feel overwhelmed, lost, or simply not okay. I've been there too, and I understand how isolating those feelings can be. In this post, I want to share my journey through tough moments, along with practical strategies that helped me regain my strength and sense of self.
Understanding the Feeling of Not Being Okay
Feeling "not okay" is something everyone experiences. It can come from stress, loss, anxiety, or the daily grind of life. I remember a specific period when everything seemed heavy and burdensome. It felt as though a dark cloud had settled over me, making it hard to see any silver lining.
The first step to tackling these feelings is to acknowledge them. It’s important to understand that it’s perfectly okay to not feel okay. In fact, recognizing your struggles is a sign of strength, not weakness. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, reaching out for help can reduce feelings of anxiety by up to 25%.
The Importance of Self-Reflection
Once I acknowledged my feelings, I turned to self-reflection. I found that journaling was an incredibly effective tool for me. Writing down my thoughts helped me process my emotions and identify the root causes of my distress.
In my journal, I dedicated a few minutes each day to write about my experiences and feelings. Some days I would simply recount my day's events. Other days, I focused deeper on my emotions, exploring why I felt a certain way. Research shows that expressive writing can improve mental well-being, reducing feelings of anxiety by nearly 30%.
Remember, self-reflection can take many forms. Whether it’s meditation, drawing, or chatting with a trusted friend, find what feels right for you. Commit to making it a part of your routine.
Seeking Support
Throughout my journey, I learned the vital role of seeking support. I realized I didn't have to go through this alone. Whether confiding in a friend, joining a support group, or speaking with a therapist, reaching out for help was crucial.
Talking openly about my feelings with someone who understood made a significant difference. It was reassuring to know I wasn't alone in my struggles. A study from the National Institute of Health indicated that social support can lower stress levels by 50%. So, if you’re feeling not okay, I encourage you to talk to someone you trust. You may find that sharing your burden makes it feel lighter.
Finding Healthy Coping Mechanisms
As I worked through my feelings, I focused on finding healthy coping mechanisms. I learned that instead of resorting to unhealthy habits, I could engage in activities that brought me joy and relaxation.
I began exercising regularly, which not only boosted my mood but also improved my overall health. For instance, a 30-minute walk three times a week can enhance mental well-being, reducing the risk of anxiety and depression by 20% to 30%. I also took up painting and gardening, which became my creative outlets, allowing me to express myself uniquely.
It’s important to find what works for you. Whether it’s dancing, cooking, or practicing yoga, participating in uplifting activities can significantly enhance your mood.
Embracing Mindfulness
Mindfulness became a key part of my healing process. I learned to stay present, acknowledging my feelings without judgment. This practice helped me detach from negative thoughts and focus on what was happening in the moment.
I started incorporating simple mindfulness techniques into my daily routine. Activities like deep breathing, taking mindful walks, or even enjoying a cup of tea helped keep me grounded. Research published in the Journal of Positive Psychology shows that regular mindfulness practice can improve emotional resilience, enabling individuals to handle stress better.
Celebrating Small Wins
As I progressed through my journey, I made it a priority to celebrate small wins. Each step forward, no matter how small, deserved recognition. It could be simply getting out of bed on a tough day or completing a task I had been putting off. This mindset shift transformed my perception of progress.
Celebrating these small victories can switch your focus from feelings of despair to moments of hope. It reinforces the idea that even during difficult times, there are small achievements worth acknowledging.
Moving Forward with Strength
Feeling not okay is a part of the human experience, but it doesn’t have to define who you are. Through self-reflection, seeking support, finding healthy coping mechanisms, embracing mindfulness, and celebrating small wins, I discovered a path to strength and resilience.
If you're currently navigating your own struggles, remember that it’s okay to ask for help and take the necessary time you need to heal. You are not alone, and there is strength in being vulnerable.
Let’s continue to support one another in our journeys, reminding ourselves that it’s perfectly fine to not feel okay sometimes. Together, we can find the strength to rise above and embrace the beauty of life, even during its most challenging moments.
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