Many people started counting down the clock well before December 31st, 2020. After what felt like such a long year fraught with a global pandemic, social unrest, a heated presidential election, and unprecedented natural disasters, the hope for change that a new year can bring couldn’t come fast enough.
Unfortunately, only two weeks into the new year, not much has changed. The expectation that everything would instantly be “better” once the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve was somewhat unrealistic, leaving people to continue to feel anxious about what’s next, when will it end, and wondering if this year will be just like the last.
Although you may wish for everything to get back to normal, the fact is, hoping and worrying will only cause more stress. There are many things that are out of your control and just wishing that they were different won’t make them so. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through 2021 feeling completely powerless. In today’s blog from Blair Wellness Group, we want to discuss some of the most important things you can do to reduce anxiety, stop worrying, and thrive in 2021.
You Have the Power
You may feel as though the world is spinning out of control but one of the best ways to counteract your feelings of despair is to remember that you have control over how you react to your situation. The first step is to acknowledge what is going on around you and then accept that although there’s a lot of uncertainty, and times may be difficult, they won’t be this way forever. Acknowledgment and acceptance are the first two steps toward feeling more in control of the uncontrollable.
Work on Changing Negative Thoughts
Cognitive distortions or negative, inaccurate perceptions of reality have a profound impact on how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. That’s not to say that things aren’t difficult and that your worries are unfounded, but telling yourself that things will never be the same or that they simply can’t get any worse will only fuel your anxiety and depression. Instead, try to look at what is going on as challenging, but bearable. Or, instead of dwelling on all of the bad things, try to find the good that has come out of this difficult time. Switching your focus to the positive, no matter what is going on around you, will make you more resilient and help you weather any storm.
Do Something Positive and Enriching
It’s easy to get stuck in a circle of negativity about not being able to do the things you want to do or go to the places you want to go. Break free from this pattern of needless and unhelpful reflection, and instead, consider what you can do to enrich your life. For instance, take up a new hobby, sign up for that online class you’ve been wanting to take, or start training for a 5K. Doing something positive and new will give you a sense of accomplishment and remind you that life is still good.
Visit A Psychologist
There’s no doubt that the last year has been difficult — and things still aren’t back to normal (and they may never be exactly as they were). If you’re having a hard time coping and it’s affecting your relationships, job, and overall quality of life, consider seeking help from a licensed clinical psychologist. At Blair Wellness Group of Beverly Hills, we offer comprehensive, confidential, concierge-style of care, and customized depression and anxiety treatment for clients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Bel Air, and the surrounding area. We can help you adjust your way of thinking and learn healthy coping mechanisms that will nurture positive mental health now, and for many years to come. Call today to schedule an appointment.
