By Peter Field
Bad moods — we all have them from time to time. In this interesting and
helpful article, a leading UK psychotherapist gives tips on how to snap
out of a bad mood and feel better.
When a bad mood kicks in, you might feel like there’s nothing you can do to get out of it.
Are you caught up with feelings of negativity and just can’t seem to see
a way out? There really are things you can do to better your mood.
Although each of us is unique, and we all measure our bad moods in
different ways, there are some tried and tested techniques for breaking
out of a bad mood. As a result of your negative mood, it’s likely you
might not be open to try some of these, but give them a go anyway. Even
though your heart might not be in it at first, once you get into some of
these techniques, you won’t be able to stay in a bad mood for long.
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Work it out: While doing exercise when you’re feeling grumpy might
not seem like an attractive plan of action, it’s actually one of the
best things you can do. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are
associated with feeling good. Not only this, but it could well help you
work through some anger or feelings of aggression that have triggered
your bad mood. -
Get unplugged: Many people, when in a bad mood, waste time clicking
around the Internet and on social networking sites. This generally does
very little to help, but is more likely to put you in an even worse
mood. Looking at social networking might affect you in a negative way
because many people begin to compare what they have to others when
browsing their friends’ online profiles. What people share online are
usually the best of the best moments, rarely a complete snapshot of
their lives, but this can make you feel like your own life could never
be so perfect. Do yourself a favor and turn off your computer and put
down your phone if you’re feeling down in the dumps. -
Get out of the house: Now that you’ve closed your Internet down, get
yourself out of the house for a period of time. Go outside and be in
nature if you can. It this isn’t really possible, then get out and go to
one of your favorite spots where you’re forced to be around other
people. Maybe try a local coffee shop, restaurant, store, or park. -
Call your friends up: Being in a bad mood usually makes us pretty
anti-social, but if you surround yourself with good friends, your bad
mood won’t be able to stick around for long. You might find yourself
faking a good mood for your friends’ sake until you surprise yourself
and you actually start to feel better! -
Do something for someone else: Nothing snaps a person out of their
bad mood better than a little bit of perspective. There is always
someone who has it worse than you do, and if you set out to help a
person in need, you’re guaranteed to have your own problems put into
perspective in no time. -
Laugh: Put on your favorite movie. Listen to your favorite radio
show, comedian, or call up a friend who makes you laugh. Put on your
favorite song and dance around your house like a crazy person. You might
not feel like laughing at first, but once you start you’ll find that,
despite what you expected, your mood will change.
Peter Field is a UK registered psychotherapist, qualified counselor,
and board-certified hypnotherapist. More information about hypnotherapy
can be found at his website: peterfieldhypnotherapy.co.uk.
Note: This article is not intended as a replacement for medical or
psychological advice or treatment. Any person requiring medical or
psychological attention should consult a qualified medical practitioner
or suitable therapist.
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