Finding Ways to Help

 

If you've ever felt what it is like to be in the slump of a breakdown then you know things can look extremely bleak.  But, even if there is just one thing you can do for yourself that is new or even a return to an old hobby, then you know how much of an impact this can have.

The main thing that you need to do when you are in the slump is be realistic - you aren't going to conquer Mount Everest tomorrow but you can start your journey with just a few steps in the right direction.

Hobbies are known to provide a positive mindset - you can get lost in a different world if you enjoy what you are doing.  And it helps you to focus on something other than how you are feeling.

From my own experience, I've found that being creative can help me through the slump.  Whilst I may not be very good at something, it doesn't stop me from enjoying it.  Below I've listed the things that have really helped me over the last few years and why they've helped - to give you some ideas.

- Knitting & Crochet

- Reading

- Listening to podcasts

- Volunteering with Girlguiding UK

- Having daily/weekly goals 

Knitting & Crochet

This started as a way to keep my hands busy and an easy hobby to do with chronic pain conditions.  The more I learned, the more I wanted to share my projects with other people.

Reading

This year, I'm making a list of everything that I've read throughout the year so I can see my progress.  I like reading different genres so I am alternating the genres with each book to keep it fresh.

Listening to podcasts

I love history - my husband found an amazing Ancient Egyptian podcast and the presenter is so easy to listen to and not condescending as some "educational" podcasts are.  I often multitask when listening and end up either knitting or crocheting!

Volunteering with Girlguiding UK

My daughter was a Brownie who was due to move up to the Guide unit when she turned 10 but the unit was being closed due to lack of adult volunteers.  I stepped up and 3 years later I'm a fully qualified Leader running that very unit.  I love helping the Guides and seeing how creative they can be.

Having daily/weekly goals

Regardless of if I'm having a rough time, I set myself at least 1 task to do each day.  Some days, it really doesn't work but others it does.  I make realistic goals like putting a load of washing in the machine or doing the dishes.  

At the end of 2025, I attended a chronic pain management group session and the main take away for me was pacing.  It's taken me a while to get used to it, but I now recognise my limits and pace myself every day.

Learning to say no to anyone and anything is also an important thing for you do.  You should never feel guilty for putting your own health first.  If the people who you say no to don't understand, then are they the type of people you need around you?  

The final way to find help is by talking to someone - anyone! And...about anything!  You don't need to explain your health, your life or situation.  You can talk about your favourite book, film, hobby, what you've seen in the news.  You'll be surprised how having a simple conversation about a random subject can make you feel.

Remember, starting small is a good way to start as baby steps can lead to much, much more.