How to Cope with Anxiety & Depression When Your Life is Going Bad

Running is one of the best things for your mental health.

When things seem to be going horrible in your life, things can be so overwhelming with no end in sight. You can’t seem to put one foot in front of the other.

I’ve been through some very challenging moments in my past, most of which were self imposed. Nonetheless, I have gotten very good at managing difficult situations and making the most out of less than optimal circumstances.

The one thing that has ALWAYS got me through the most difficult of times is running. Specifically running longer distances. There is something about elevating your heart rate, physically running far away from your home, and being out by yourself. Your mind begins to wander and you begin to tap into a primal instinct of survival because you know that you need to stay physically and mentally strong in order to get home safe.

It’s also a great time for reflection. While running, you need to focus on breathing and when you find that rhythm, your mind starts to wander. You begin to explore unresolved emotional & psychological issues, as well as childhood trauma. This is no easy task as it can be uncomfortable having to face those demons, but it is so worth it in the end.

Finally, the science is very clear on the positive physical and psychological effects that exercise has on us. If you go for your run outside (which I recommend) and not on a treadmill, you will also reap the benefits of the vitamin D from the sun (the UV rays go through clouds too!). In today’s scary world with COVID19, it is imperative to get as much vitamin D as possible, as it helps improve your immune system to fight off any infectious diseases.

I discuss this in more detail in the video below.