When something goes wrong in our lives, it’s hard to remember that the world isn’t actually ending. You might have been dumped, lost a relative, or had an argument with your best mate, but whatever has happened you’re going to feel pretty down until you get over it. We’ve put together a list of things to help you feel more positive about yourself and life in general, and help you on your way to recovery.

• The most important step to making yourself feel better is to realise that you have so many other good things in your life. Make a list of positive things, like having a loving family or a nice personality, and pin them up in a prominent place in your bedroom.
• As well as making a list of good things, make a list of bad points about your life and then tear it up and put it in the bin. Concentrating on negative things is why you’re feeling so down, so if you get them out of the way, even if it is just a list, you’ll be helping yourself concentrate on something else.
• Pampering yourself is bound to improve your mood, so do something you love. It doesn’t have to be something expensive, just something simple like window shopping, a nice hot bath, or eating your fave food will do.
• Talking to someone you trust will make you feel a lot more positive, as they say, ‘A problem shared is a problem halved’. Talking about people involved in the same situation that is making you feel down will often help even more as they can understand the thoughts whirling around in your head a lot better.
• Writing down your negative thoughts has the same kind of effect as telling someone. Also, writing in a diary means you can look back at how you felt when things have improved and feel even better, as well as having a record so you know how to deal with it if you find yourself in the same kind of situation again.
• When you’re feeling really pissed off and worn out by so many depressing thoughts try taking a walk, however cold and miserable it is. Exercise will boost endorphin levels in your body, which automatically makes you feel better. It will also give you the opportunity to appreciate your surroundings, which should make you realise that the world isn’t such a horrible place after all.
• Laughing also boosts endorphin levels, so invite your mates over and play some fun games like twister, which are sure to end up with a fit of the giggles. On the other hand you might opt to spend your night with some comedy classics from your local blockbuster.
• Have a daily hug with someone you love in the mornings to get you through the day.
• Wear your fave perfume or cologne to make you feel confident during the day, as well as smelling yummy :)

REMEMBER: Life is like a roller coaster – if you’ve been down for a while, something good is probably just around the corner.

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