Work, school, family, friends, and other responsibilities can be overwhelming and can sometimes cause problems, stress, and anxiety. After having to deal with everything, you may be left feeling tired and having some sad feelings. Here are a few tips that may help bring your spirits up after feeling blue for a while.

A very important thing to do is to acknowledge those emotions, don’t try to ignore them and pretend they don’t exist. It’s okay to feel that way and there’s nothing wrong with you for it. Once you’ve done that, remember that the way you feel today isn’t indicative of how tomorrow will go. Every day is a new day and you always have the opportunity to try again and pick yourself up.

Usually, when feeling blue, there’s an internalized voice that talks down on us. Well, tell that voice to shut up and do the opposite of what it is suggesting. It can be hard, but you are the one with the power to control the negative thought and how they affect your life. Address each thought individually as they come and do it one at a time. Take baby steps, set little goals that are easier to achieve, so you won’t get frustrated and disappointed when you lack the motivation to accomplish bigger goals.

Take care of yourself. You may feel guilty in taking time to relax and do some self-care, but if you have to be your main priority. Giving some love and care to your body, will ease your mind and help distract you from those negative thoughts. Recognizing your success can be a powerful weapon against the negative thoughts caused by depression.

Surround yourself with positive people. Usually, when feeling depressed, all you want to do is to be alone and away from the world, but energy is contagious, so when you gather around with people that have positive energy, they will cling to you. Try hanging out with a friend or family member that can cheer you up. Talking about the problem and your feelings is also important because you can release it from your system; if you don’t feel comfortable talking about it, you can always journal and pour your heart out by writing it.

These tips can help lift you after an emotional slump, but don’t be afraid to seek out professional help and treatment. Mental health is important.