There are good days and bad mental health days. Increasingly the latter is what most people are grappling with lately. Hence, it makes sense to pin these self-care tips that can help you when you are feeling overly anxious or down. Deekshaa Athwani, consultant clinical psychologist, Fortis Healthcare breaks it down for you.

Self-care tips for ‘bad’ mental health days

Here’s a guide to help you get through the worst when you are feeling low and defeated. Following these self-care tips regularly can help you make it through those low phases. Here’s what you can do.

• Reach out to a friend
  Call a friend and connect with them. Friends and family can provide support and care in times of need. Feel free to express your feelings. Isolating yourself is the last thing you want to do on a bad day.
• Do a brain dump
  Another way of journaling, simply write down all your thoughts and feelings. This may help you clear your mind. You can later throw the paper away; imagine it as doing away with all negative thoughts.
• Log out from social media
  Social media can be harsh, so turn your device off for an hour or two every day and spend some time with yourself.
• Use a self-care checklist
  Create a self-care checklist, and perform any two self-care activities daily. This will also help you track your self-care habits.
• Have a self-care plan
  Keep a list of activities ready that will help cheer you up. You can practice these activities if you are having a rough day. From listening to music, practicing and using positive affirmations, reading motivational books, practicing mindfulness exercises and pursuing a hobby you enjoy.
• Love yourself
  You may experience a bad mental health day because you are doing too much. Reward yourself with your favorite ice cream or a spa treatment to show yourself some self-appreciation.