Things I quietly return to when life gets too loud
There was a time I didn’t even know I was struggling mentally. I just thought I was lazy. Or weak. Or both.
I used to push myself hard. Skip sleep. Say yes to everything. Keep smiling even when I wanted to scream. Then wonder why I felt so drained at the end of every day.
It wasn’t until a quiet breakdown in the middle of a crowded café that I realised something had to change.
Since then, I’ve collected a few tools. Nothing fancy. Just things that work for me when I’m on the edge, or even better—before I get there.
1. A slow morning walk (without headphones)
I used to think I needed podcasts or music every second. Now I leave the headphones at home. Walking early in the morning, watching birds, hearing dogs bark, breathing—this resets me in ways nothing else can.
2. Journaling, but not every day
I don’t force it. I just write when my head is messy. Dumping thoughts on paper clears up space inside. Some days it's two pages. Some days it’s one line: “Today felt heavy.” That’s enough.
3. Talking to one person I trust
Not a therapist (though I’ve considered it), just a friend who listens without trying to fix me. I’ll send a voice note like, “Hey, just needed to let this out.” Those check-ins have kept me sane.
4. Cleaning one small thing
Weird one maybe. But when my mind feels cluttered, doing the dishes or cleaning the bathroom mirror makes me feel like I still have control over something. Small wins.
5. A playlist that feels like a warm hug
I made a playlist called “Feel Safe Here.” It’s full of songs that calm me down. No sad breakup music—just stuff that helps me breathe slower.
6. Logging off when it gets too much
I don’t always succeed. But when I log off social media for a day or two, I feel lighter. Like I’m living for me again—not for the likes or replies.
This isn’t a perfect list
It’s just what’s helped me survive hard days. Maybe it helps you too. Maybe you’ll build your own version of this list. Either way, if your mind feels heavy, I hope you know you’re not broken. Just tired. And that’s okay.
Take it slow. Take care of your mind. It's more powerful than you think.
