Maybe you haven’t felt like yourself for a while, and so far, nothing you’ve tried to cheer yourself up has worked. Sometimes, unorthodox self-care practices can be surprisingly helpful! Plus, you can find guidance from a compassionate therapist like Alexis Silver, LICSW. Here are some self-care techniques you might not have thought of yet, like switching careers, building your own nonprofit, or planting a garden.
Consider a Career Change
What if your job is negatively affecting your mental health? It might be time to think about switching careers. You can gain the skills you need to enter a new field by enrolling in an online degree program. By taking online courses, you can juggle work, school, and family responsibilities. If you’re considering an online MBA program, look for accredited schools with affordable tuition. In this type of program, you’ll learn essential leadership skills, business development strategies, and more.
Start Your Own Nonprofit
If you want to make a difference in your community, you could start a nonprofit. Working on a meaningful project like this can be deeply fulfilling! If you officially register your organization as a nonprofit corporation, you’ll have an easier time securing grants and public funding. To do this, you’ll need to write up bylaws explaining your operational procedures, including details about organizational governance, your schedule for board meetings, voting processes, and plans for dealing with conflicts of interest.
Sign Up to Volunteer
Helping others in need can boost your spirits. If you want to start volunteering, Thriveworks committing to two to five hours of volunteer work per week. You can meet new friends, build your professional network, and most importantly, make a real difference!
Plant a Garden
Getting outdoors and connecting with nature can dramatically improve your mental health. You don’t need much space to plant a garden – even if you live in an apartment, you can start growing herbs in your windowsill! Before you set up garden beds or window gardens, you can reference online resources for detailed product reviews and in-depth advice.
Participate in Clinical Studies
If you’d like to make a little extra money and contribute to the future of medical research, you could enroll in clinical studies. Get in touch with local research hospitals or universities to see if you qualify for any ongoing trials!
Adopt a Pet
A furry friend can be a welcome addition to your life. Zocdoc states that having a pet can open up new social opportunities, help you get more exercise, lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, and ease feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
Try Float Therapy
If you want to try something entirely new, book a float therapy session! Floating in a sensory deprivation tank can be deeply relaxing. It’s a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of the world for a while.
Learn to Knit
Sometimes, picking up a quiet, soothing hobby can help quell your anxious thoughts. Knitting is an affordable hobby that almost anyone can try – and you can bring your needles and knitting projects on the go! Many people find knitting to be quiet meditative, and as you practice, you’ll be able to knit unique gifts for your family and friends. Soon, you can wear your own creations!
Managing your mental health can feel complicated. But with the right approach, you can find joy in life again and start looking forward to the future. By considering a new career direction, establishing your very own nonprofit, and getting your hands dirty in the garden, you’ll notice your mood lifting a bit more each day.
Have you been struggling with your mental health? A therapist like Alexis Silver, LICSW can help. Call today at 508-579-2748 to schedule your first session.
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