The post is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.
Happiness is an elusive concept. However, many people can agree that happiness is marked by moments of joy, appreciation, and contentment. The amount of happiness people have falls on a spectrum and can ebb and flow during our lives. This is based on countless things from our personal mindset to circumstances that feel outside our control.
What if you decided to BE about happiness? Right now, just make the choice to strive to be happier- not because you’re chasing that image we see on social media. It’s not about being perfect or always having a smile on your face.
Choosing joy is just about finding ways to improve well-being and then looking for reasons to feel rushes of pleasure.
If there’s something in your life that you’re struggling with and you feel it may be holding you back from the happiest version of you, please know that you deserve joy. You have a right to a happy and satisfying life. Help is out there and we’re going to talk about how to find it if you need it.
Let’s explore ways to foster happiness, appreciate the small things, and navigate mental health moments with compassion and resilience.
Embracing Joy in Everyday Life
Finding happiness often begins with appreciating the simple pleasures that surround us. Taking time to engage in activities that bring us joy, such as spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or enjoying nature, can uplift our spirits and promote overall well-being.
Sometimes this is called self-care. But, it’s about mindfulness too. When we train ourselves to look for good things, we notice more of them. It kind of sets us off on a path to seek and appreciate little moments.
Promoting Joy and Fun
Infusing our lives with fun and laughter is essential for cultivating happiness.
Whether trying out a new hobby, exploring new places, or indulging in creative pursuits, incorporating moments of joy and playfulness can brighten our days and enhance our sense of fulfillment.
Have you heard about the concept of merriment!? It might be a fanciful practice you’ll want to adopt.
Appreciating the Small Things
There are plenty of things to complain about. Things don’t always go our way. But, if you think about it, small moments of joy are like treasure. Why not go on the hunt!?
Happiness often lies in the little moments that we may overlook in our busy lives. Practicing gratitude and mindfulness can help us appreciate the beauty of everyday life, from a warm cup of coffee in the morning to a breathtaking sunset in the evening.
Understanding Depression with Compassion
These tips are great for most people, but if you’re living with a mental health condition or really struggling right now, happiness may feel far away. That’s ok and you don’t have to make the jump from where you are to where you want to be in one leap.
Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It’s important to approach the topic with compassion and empathy, recognizing that depression is not simply feeling sad but a profound and debilitating illness that requires support and understanding.
You don’t have to struggle on your own. Therapy for depression is generally effective and that means it might help you too.
Signs of Depression and Seeking Therapy
Signs of depression can vary from person to person but may include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness.
You might feel angry, though, and that could be depression. There are many ways it can present.
Seeking therapy can provide valuable support and coping strategies for managing depression, offering a safe space to explore emotions and work toward healing.
Online therapy services like BetterHelp can connect you with a therapist skilled in CBT and other forms of treatment recognized as effective for depression. Find more information about how to tell if you’re depressed on the BetterHelp site.
You Deserve To Feel Good
The happy road is full of joy, appreciation for the small things, and compassion for ourselves and others. It’s not always easy to find the onramp, but it’s worth the effort.
Outside support can really help get us on the highway, especially when facing the challenges of depression. By reaching out and inviting someone on the journey, we don’t have to go it alone.
