Staying socially active — even if you don't feel like it

When we get sad or anxious, socializing with others can be difficult and feel less rewarding. Although those feelings are understandable, isolating yourself from people you care about usually makes feelings of loneliness, boredom and hopelessness worse.

Because of this, it’s important that you socialize — even when you don’t feel like it. You may think: “I’m just going to bring people down if I talk to them, so it’s a better idea to stay home by myself.” But it’s important to fight against this pattern. Rather than give in to your sadness and fear by isolating, try doing the opposite by reaching out to someone in your social network. You don’t need to make any grand plans; even having someone swing by to stream a movie or run an errand with you can be a way of staying socially active. If you struggle to follow through on loose promises to socialize, make concrete plans: a set date, time, place and activity.

Even if spending time with people doesn’t feel as rewarding or enjoyable as it once did when you may have felt less down or anxious, there are still major benefits to being around people, particularly friends and loved ones. The people close to you can lift your mood, distract you from a source of anxiety, grow your confidence — and even help you look forward to future plans. Socializing is as important as exercising, eating right, getting enough sleep and spending time outdoors. It’s helpful for your physical and mental health even when you don’t feel like it.

On your own: Identify feel good activities that might help you break the negative cycle.