Here’s to a Happier New Year: The Pursuit of Happiness in 2022

Happiness is a relative subject, and what makes one person happy might not put a smile on someone else’s face. For you, happiness may be finding peace with who you are, or having the freedom to pursue your deepest dreams. Regardless of what your version of true happiness looks like, it is an emotion that is always accessible and obtainable.

When you are happy, it feels like there is nothing you can’t accomplish. You feel relaxed, You’re not worrying about doom-and-gloomy what-ifs. Happiness may seem elusive, but there are simple ways to improve your daily happiness just by incorporating new habits. 

Here are some tips on how to live a happier life. Remember, this is a process which will take time—forming happy habits won’t happen overnight, but we urge you to trust the process: 

• Exercise. Exercise is not just for your body. Regular exercise can reduce stress and the symptoms of depression, while boosting self-esteem and happiness. Even a small amount of physical activity can make a big difference. The best strategy is to start out easy, because if you overexert yourself right out of the gates, you will be less likely to stick with the program.

• Sleep. Adequate sleep is vital for good health, brain function, and emotional well-being. Most of us need 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. If you find yourself feeling the urge to nap during the day, your body might be telling you it requires more sleep. Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Also, reserve time before bed to help wind yourself down from the day. 

• Find your passion. Think about what truly interests you, and make time to engage in those activities. Whether it’s reading, gardening, or enjoying nature, you will find that when you are doing something you love, you are filled with joy. 

• Help others. You may have achieved your own personal goals, but have not made a meaningful contribution to someone else’s life. When we volunteer or otherwise help others, the impact we make feels fulfilling and is a source for our own happiness. 

• Be thankful. Take the time every day to think of all the things you have to be grateful for. Without realizing it, we sometimes take our more basic necessities for granted. By appreciating the things you already have, you will begin to feel happier in your life. 

Sometimes it might be a little harder to achieve happiness, especially if you suffer from clinical depression. If you experience continued symptoms of hopelessness, irritability, sleep disturbances, or reduced appetite, the next best step would be to reach out to a mental health professional. A professional will be able to create the best treatment plan for you, whether it is talk therapy, ketamine infusions, or other antidepressant medications. No matter the treatment, seeking help is the first step in getting you back to feeling like you again. 

Contact Ketamine Greater Boston

If you have already tried talk therapy, antidepressants, or other depression treatments, but nothing has worked, then ketamine infusions could be an effective solution for you. If you have questions, or want to learn more about how ketamine infusions alleviate depression—quickly—in up to 70% of patients, contact Ketamine Greater Boston using the brief form below.