Approaches to attempt to “calm down”, stop the excessive thoughts and fixation…
- listen to music and really focus on the instruments and the lyrics
- art therapy i.e. art coloring book for relaxation
- “dance it out”
- go for a run
- paint on a canvas
- cook or bake something for the very first time- work on those culinary art skills of yours
- draw something complex which takes intense focus and concentration i.e. realistic human figures with many details/shadowing, etc.
- decorate the apartment i.e. for Christmas
- get around to that Christmas shopping… finally…
- walk around Crate & Barrel and create your dream list of home items and furniture sets 😉
- think of an incredibly thoughtful gift for someone i.e. cookbook with marked recipes that you know your mom will love
- explore a new city or store or restaurant… distract yourself
- talk to friends and get engaged in “normal” everyday behavior i.e. going to the movies
- treat yourself i.e. YoPo frozen yogurt, Starbucks Peppermint Mocha
Don’t:
- try to keep all the overwhelming emotions to yourself… that may just lead to an intense emotional breakdown
- focus on what isn’t important right here and now… focus instead on self-care and stress-management
- act as if everything is perfectly fine, when it is not… those who love you will help you through it and be understanding of your situation
- view your “mental illness” as a weakness… embrace your strengths and how they can help you excel in life rather than drag you down
- believe the mental health stigma/misconceptions of the media and society in general…
The Calculating Mind 