I am learning that social media is not a place for me to be on bad health days; it becomes a place many of us cannot handle.

In my post, “Why I Cry When I Open Social Media on Bad Health Days,” I talk about how social media has gained control over my illness and myself. We, as a society, have become so reliant on social media. I do not remember what life was like before checking my phone multiple times a day became a thing.

Having a chronic illness, I believe I check social media more often than I should. The confession I shared in my post, explained that social media has the power to make me cry on a bad health day. Simple posts, pictures, achievements, or stories from friends and family, can cause me to lose control.

No matter how upset I am, my anxiety kicks in and I feel the need to continue scrolling and reading, until I have made myself sick to my stomach. The pity party I throw has become my new obsession. I have no one to blame but myself.

Instead, I have found other things to do to help steer me away from the obsession I have created.

Seven things to do instead of social media

• Personal development books
  

  Personal development books have become more of an obsession that I can handle. I do not know what I would do without them. When I am in my head bringing myself down, I close my electronics and sit with a PD book. There is nothing better than criticism from PD books. They always remind you that life is not perfect, but also it is not that bad. After reading, I always feel as if I have a new outlook on life. I let go of all my whys and begin to ask myself what. What can I do to make my life more enjoyable? PD erases my sadness from what I saw on social media. Instead it creates an I am going to do big things with my life attitude.

• Write

  Writing always has been my happy place. For me, it helps me let out all the emotions and feelings I have bottled up inside. It allows me to feel like I have a clean slate to start my day over again with a more positive mindset.

• Yoga 

  Another obsession that is easier to handle, yoga helps me physically, mentally and emotionally. The moment I feel like I am about to spiral into another dimension, I take out my yoga mat and practice a few of my favorite poses and breathing exercises. Shutting off my electronics and finding my inner-self through yoga has begun to bring me back to life.

• Outdoors/walking 

  There really is nothing better than heading outside and getting a fresh breath of air. Nature is one of my most favorite things to sit and stare at; it constantly reminds me just how beautiful life truly is. Light walking also allows me to clear my mind. Some days, I cry the entire time, talking to myself about what it is I saw that made me upset. By the time I finish walking, I feel so much better.

• Group therapy

  Knowing that you are part of a group, where you can share everything and not be judged, can really help you when you are feeling alone.

• Music

  There is nothing better than blasting music and singing until my lungs are sore. Another confession: I love to put on concerts in my basement, in front of my invisible guests, with my karaoke machine. Pretending to be a rock star makes me feel like one and I totally forget why I was upset.

• Light activities

  This could range from crafts or adult coloring books to playing with my dog. These activities help keep my mind occupied and bring me back to life.

These seven ideas have been what I rely on when I feel I am going social-media crazy. It is not always easy to shut off everything and take a step back, but it is important to try. Try to do these things daily, if you are able. You may be able to find a sense of balance and control.

My ideas may not be helpful for everyone, so I would love to hear what you do, instead of social media, on bad health days.

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