How to Feel Better When I'm Upset

When you're upset, depressed, or just having a bad day, the easiest thing you can do is sit around feeling sorry for yourself and the unpleasant circumstances you may have found yourself in. Wallowing in self pity only makes things seem worse. The best way to feel better when you are upset is to get up and do something that will make you forget your sorrows and focus on something lighter and brighter. Doing so will lift you up instead of dragging you further into sorrow.

Instructions

• 1

  Exercise. Getting your heart rate up and your blood flowing through exercise releases endorphins, which are the "feel good hormones." Exercise is a natural way to release stress and feel better in general, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Hop on a treadmill, go for a walk outside, workout with weights, or try a new group fitness class.

• 2

  Help someone else. When you're upset, take your focus off yourself and do something for someone else. Doing so, even though it may be hard at first, will make you feel better since you will be less focused on your situation. Volunteer at a soup kitchen, babysit for a friend, wash someone's car, pay for the stranger's coffee behind you in line at the drive-thru, take your parents out to eat, or help out a family member with something they need.

• 3

  Get pampered. When you're upset, stress is a natural response that often takes its toll on your body. To fell better, spend some time pampering yourself and relaxing. Get a manicure or pedicure, get your eyebrows waxed, get your hair cut, colored, or styled, get a facial, or get a massage. If you spend 60 to 90 minutes relaxing, it will energize you and help you feel better.

• 4

  Call a friend. When you're upset, sometimes you just need to talk it out. Call a close friend, one whom you know won't mind if you vent, and say exactly how you feel. Don't hold back. Oftentimes a friend will provide you with a fresh perspective and outlook on your situation and help you feel better about it all.

• 5

  Do something. Sitting around is the worst thing you can do when you are upset. Instead of feeling sorry for yourself, get up and get something accomplished. Organize a room in your home, clean your house, wash your car or clean out your closet. Accomplishment is vital to feeling better overall.