This guest blog post was written and inspired by Lucille Rosetti of TheBereaved.org

Family tension, financial difficulties, or the loss of a loved one can trigger unbearable grief and feelings of hopelessness. By setting healthy goals, you can rise out of despair and regain contentment.

Here are some recommended Methods to overcome it:

• Amp Up Your Exercise Routine 

Research shows that consistent physical activity correlates to robust mental health. Exercise for at least 30 minutes, five days a week. Try taking a walk during your lunch breaks if you struggle to find time for your fitness regimen. Also, you could use the stairs instead of an elevator to squeeze in more steps.

• Try Online Therapy 

These days, counseling is available online, and you have access to a wide selection of counselors. Request complimentary consultations with various professionals until you find the perfect therapist. A virtual coach offers private and secure sessions with a lower obligation than required for in-person sessions. Plus, online therapy is often costs less and spares you the travel time to an office. 

• Give Up Unhealthy Dependencies 

Traumatic moments might spawn a reliance on tobacco, drugs, or alcohol. Embrace life by fighting against any destructive addictions. Be wary of less obvious compulsions that are damaging, like overeating, media bingeing, and sex addiction.

• Improve Your Posture 

Poor posture leads to an aching back and weak muscles. Practicing good posture strengthens your core and reduces stress on your body. Standing tall and proud also boosts your confidence, productivity, and alertness. 

• Build Personal Boundaries 

If you tend to drown yourself in useless activities or toxic relationships to avoid facing pain, the reality of your circumstances will catch up with you. Devote appropriate time for self-care by saying “No” to activities and people that interfere with valuable “me time.” 

• Keep a Diary 

Communicate with yourself to fully grasp your feelings by journaling. Freely writing the first things that come into your mind and heart helps you identify where your struggles lie and what anxieties you need to address. Don’t limit yourself to just expressing your feelings in words. Musicians can improvise and record pieces that capture their feelings. When you can’t verbalize your sorrow, you can visualize and sketch your emotions, which can be more potent than the written word. 

• Maintain Social Connections 

Even introverted people need a healthy level of social connections. You don’t have to be the life of the party everywhere you go, but take steps to make emotional bonds with the people who mean most to you. Send cards or letters to a parent, child, or old friend you appreciate. Don’t worry about being profound. Just share a few lines to say that you’re thinking about them. An e-mail, direct message, or text can do the job, but handwritten letters can feel more heartfelt. 

• Enjoy a Healthy Amount of Sleep 

Commit to a regular bedtime, even on weekends and holidays. If you’re retired or self-employed with a flexible schedule, avoid the trap of laying listlessly in bed after waking. Set concrete objectives nightly to wake up with a sense of purpose, ready to tackle the day. Find your ideal mattress or bed topper and rest on clean, firm pillows for improved sleep quality.

• Drink More Water 

A diet overhaul may be a little too much to attempt at the moment, but improve your physical and mental health by starting your day with a glass of water. Then aim to drink about three liters a day to stay hydrated. Pick up an attractive, easy-to-clean bottle to help you track your consumption.

You can fight despair and discouragement by setting healthy goals that you can proudly achieve. You will find yourself shedding grief and enjoying life again.