Shift Your Focus
How do you get out of a mental rut? By finding a happy and healthy distraction! To take a break from stressful thoughts, change your mental channel by spending time with content that you find healthy, engaging and enjoyable. Of course watching your favorite movie won’t solve a nagging concern - but taking a break from thinking about something that’s bothering you might help you see the problem from a fresh perspective.
We’re not saying you should watch Disney movies every single day (unless you want to!). But when much of our entertainment is “bite-sized” articles, or short videos designed to overstimulate, it makes sense to take time for warm and aspirational content.
Tools to Support You
Dive into something that interests you
What are you interested in? Passionate about? There’s nothing like diving in and learning more about your interests. YouTube, Reddit, TedX and your local library are good places to start.
Move your body
Move your body however you can whether that is a walk outside with a friend or a dance party by yourself!
Listen to music
Listen to music that either matches or enhances your mood. If you need a place to start, try our Mental Health & Inspirational Playlist on Spotify.
Take a Break from Social Media
Taking a break from social media helps clear mental clutter, reduce anxiety and comparison, and boost focus. It gives your mind space to reset so you can feel more present, calm, and in control.
Watch a Movie
Here’s never a shortage of uplifting movies to watch. Find our favorites here.
Practice Self-Compassion
Try this exercise on self-compassion led by Dr. Kristen Neff.
Read a good book
Curl up with a good book. It could be fiction, nonfiction, self-help… whatever you enjoy! Find our book list here.
“If you can’t stop thinking about something upsetting, consider using distraction as a resource. Find something absorbing. Find something engaging for yourself or your kid. Spending a little time on a different mental channel can help us feel better.”
Need Help Now? Call or text 988 or text ‘HOME’ to 741741 for support
If you’d like insight on these mental fitness tools or to connect with someone on the Inspiring Children and #NotAloneChallenge team please fill out our submission form here.