TeenHealthFX - Answers - Little 'Spurts' Of Sadness & Methods Of Mental Relaxation

Other Emotional Health Issues / Question
Published: March 13, 2003

Dear TeenHealthFX,

Hello. I am fourteen years old. Occasionally, I'll feel strong feelings of nostalgia (such as from earlier years, or thoughts of people I no longer get to see daily, etc) out of no where. These feelings tend to cause me to be severely depressed for a solid 15 minutes, thoroughly wrecking my productivity. After that, I'm fine. Is there anyway to counter-act this sort of depression? Apart from these little 'spurts' of sadness, I'd say I'm an otherwise well-adjusted, happy individual. Also, on a side note, what methods of mental relaxation would you recommend? Commonly I end the day unable to turn off my brain, making it hard to rest.

Signed: Little 'Spurts' Of Sadness & Methods Of Mental Relaxation

Dear Little 'Spurts' Of Sadness & Methods Of Mental Relaxation,

FX is glad that you wrote to us and it shows that you are concerned about yourself and your well-being. People, especially teenagers often will experience periods in their lives when their emotions change quickly from one extreme to the next. As long as their periods don't last for extensive amounts of time, cause a major change in your daily routine, and hurt your ability to participate in your normal schedule, they may be nothing to be overly concerned about. This said, sometimes these feelings of depression can start to last longer and happen more frequently.

FX recommends talking to your parents about seeing a therapist to discuss this with. At the very least, a therapist can be someone to talk to and vent your feelings to. Also, they may be able to help you put things into perspective and help you find ways to deal with your stress. To find a therapist in northern NJ call the Access Center for Behavioral Health at (888) 247-1400.

Relaxation and stress reduction are great ways to deal with these times of sadness and to make it easier for you to rest. There are many healthy inexpensive alternatives to the use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and excessive food to escape from unpleasant circumstances and to help you to relax.

Some examples include:

Taking a bubble bath or warm shower
Taking a long slow walk
Talking to a friend
Relaxing your body parts one at a time
Tensing and relaxing your muscles (see link below)
Deep breathing (see link below)
Listening to music
Spending time with a pet
Drawing
Hugging a parent, sibling, or other special person
Reading a book

Also, check out this question - I.M. Stressed. The answer provides great techniques for relaxation like deep breathing, and muscle relaxation tips.

Signed: TeenHealthFX