10 Therapist Tips for Finding Hope in Dark Times

Focus on positive things

One of the most important things that you have to do if you want to be happy again is to try to focus more on positive things. 

“It is a lot more work to focus on positive things and it takes practice,” says Miller. “Our brains are wired to protect us from danger and have an inherent negativity bias and are thus more attracted to troubling information. To pull yourself out of the negativity, actively practice finding something positive to focus on.”

“See yourself there and feel yourself there; bring in those sensory elements. Taking a few minutes every day to practice seeing the positive has an incredibly positive effect on your mood and behavior,” she says.

Have some “me time”

For a healthy life, you need to take some time to relax and focus on the things that help you develop mentally, physically and spiritually.

“Placing self-care as a priority is not a ‘selfish’ thing to do, especially during these difficult times,” Flowers says. “Disconnecting and taking a break to recenter yourself is a form of self-preservation that is much needed for your own long-term sustainability in avoiding burnout. Give yourself permission to take a much needed break if you need to,” she says.

“Meditation can calm both your mind and body and restore a sense of groundedness and balance,” says Capanna-Hodge.