Getting Out of Emotional Slumps

We can strive to maintain a sunny attitude, but we are all prone to occasional mood swings. Some of us even experience perplexing cases of the blues that seem to come from nowhere.

We are not machines. Even they break down sometimes and can also have baffling causes.

Yes, we all fall into emotional slumps from time to time, and it's definitely normal, but we should not allow those lows to occur to regularly or turn into lingering periods of despair that can lead to depression and other problems.

So, then next time a dark cloud comes over you, here are some ways you can chase it away.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy probably put it across most profoundly and succinctly by staying on its cover... "DON'T PANIC". It's probably not as serious as you think. And even if it is, panicking hardly helps... thinking it through calmly and lucidly is always the best way to go.

Get things into perspective. Don't over-speculate, over-analyse, or imagine disaster scenarios that have no basis in fact. If what's getting you down has you truly worried, then find out more about it. The more you understand something, the less scary it usually gets. There are also many hidden aspects of a situation that only become clear when you actually seek them out.

When you're down in a slump, it also often helps to get out! Literally! Physically change your perspective! Remaining in a familiar environment can remind you of your sadness or frustration, so change your scenery. Sometimes, "out of sight" is truly "out of mind".

However, if getting out of your physical surroundings is not practical, then try changing it. Dreaming up a new concept of your room or office can be rejuvenating experience. Go shopping with a friend and turn your personal space into one that is truly relaxing and inspiring.

And spend more time with positive people, animals or nature. anything that makes you get up, go out and feel good.

Just remember, however horrible you might be feeling at the moment, it will pass. The worst thing you can do when you are feeling low is to indulge that sinking feeling. So do something, take action, and you should be well on your way to feeling much better.

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Eugine Loh, 938Live, MediaCorp Pte Ltd