2026 Blues ~ Supporting Mental Health

No Politics In The Comments*

It's been a very disruptive year. Last year wasn't much better. However, with help from several apps and many friends, I've been able to pull myself out of the Blues I've been feeling. I hope many of us who've been struggling can also share ways we've kept ourselves going in the comments.

1. Walking - it's repetitive but it's true for a reason. I could spout the science, but instead I'll just say - THANK YOU @POKEMONGO for getting me and my friends out and about more often rather than just for errands and appointments .
2. Talking - again, it's cliche for a reason. Sharing and ranting and venting with people who care and understand is always helpful. SHOUT OUT TO THE GROUP CHATS! They help with humor, venting, and even finding solutions without feeling condescending. 
3. Lists - I know it's silly because half the time we misplace or forget them, but it kept me from feeling adrift if nothing else. It also helped me remember things later even if I'd left the (handwritten in some cases) list at home. THANK YOU @SAMSUNG_NOTES for the digital lists I kept and also the creative things I use you for. 

Also, while I don't want politics in the comments because Mental Health Matters for every individual, I am very grateful to have used my right to vote this year. Maybe it's silly, but I love the sticker we get. It's like a participation trophy, I suppose, but it makes me smile every time. 

February Suggestions.

First, while I will bring up Trump - this is not going to get political. That's what Tiktok is for. This blog has always been for Mental Health. 

 I don't know how everyone else has been handling the rollercoaster of nonsense since Trump came into office, but here are a few ways to deal over the next few days if nothing else.

It's nearly Valentine's Day, and while not all of us love the Hallmark Instituted holiday it is still a nice way to remind people you care about them. Make your own cards, look for inspiration on Reddit and Instagram. [I printed mine at the local library.]

If you're not into crafts, look into the true history of the holiday. Or simply re-watch the Valentine episode from Season 2 of BONES. 

If you can afford a night out, head to the movies and watch Love Hurts while it's still in theatres. Absolutely worth it. 

Cook your favorite meal - regardless of if you are dining alone. 

Put a record on if you have a Victrola. 

Connect to your speakers and play your favorite playlist via Bluetooth. {P!nk is in every playlist I have. So is Lady Gaga.}

Dance by yourself. Take a superb selfie. Get your gamer on and grab the Playstation/XBox for a few hours. 

Or just read a good book. {Bone Key by Keith R.A. DeCandido is a good read if you are looking to avoid the mushy stuff - more so if you are a fan of the T.V. series: Supernatural.}

But never just give up to the sadness... If it is feeling like more than these can help with, call your local doctor's office and get a referral for therapy. Mental Health is the most important part of your healthcare. If you aren't looking after you, who will? 

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Black History Month!

Do not let The Man get you down!

TikTok Counting down the Clock (U.S.A. Ban)

 It's January in the U.S.A. and we all have been stressing over the potential TikTok Ban... I wish everyone luck, especially since TikTok has proven to be instrumental in maintaining people's mental health and sense of community. 

In the meantime, look up MICHIGAN by Alexys Leana if you need to decompress with some soft music. The lyrics are beautiful and this song is highly underrated. 

Living Right - Simplicity Matters -by A. McRae

 "You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough." ~Mae West

        Living right is by no means an easy feat. In fact, in the current societal atmosphere, it can be so difficult some do not even try. Personally, I try to start with the basics:

• Water (1 Gallon a Day is a lot, but I figure as long as you have 1 bottle a day the rest of your fluids will still fill in.)
• Food (Who really gets all their groups in? Still, add some cheese to a sandwich or with your grapes. If it can pair with wine there's no reason it can't pair with most fruits as well...)
• Sunshine (No one says you have to live outside, but an hour a day does wonders - but remember to use your sunscreen this month!)

After that it's more of a social niceties, to be honest. I'm a big believer in cooking for people, but I know others whom enjoy reading for the elderly and mowing a neighbor's lawn just because they can. 

If you're ever down, just remember that you can always do something nice for someone else and it will, more than likely, turn your entire afternoon around. 

Reach Out to your Loved Ones

Inspiration 🫶✨️