How to Take Care of Yourself on a Rough Mental Health Day

We all have days when things feel heavier than usual. Days that seem like nothing is going right or the motivation to do simple tasks is gone. Whether it’s due to stress, anxiety, or an overwhelming sense of sadness, mental health struggles don’t discriminate. They can sneak up on anyone at any time. On days like this, taking care of yourself is essential to survival, but it’s a lot easier said than done. Self-care is more than a buzzword; it’s a vital practice that can help a person cope with difficult emotions and recharge mental batteries. At Morningstar, we believe in the power of self-care and comfort, and we’re here to remind you that on your roughest days, you deserve to be gentle with yourself.

We will walk you through actionable steps to take care of yourself on those challenging days. Whether it’s carving out time for a simple skin-care routine, wearing something comfortable, or talking with a loved one, these small efforts can help you get through tough moments more comfortably.

Apparel for Raising Awareness for Mental Health Day

The green ribbon is the symbol for mental health awareness. Check out our blog on how to create custom apparel centered on raising awareness for mental health. If you or a loved one are struggling, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States, call 800-273-8255 to get help.

Recognizing the Signs

The first step in taking care of yourself on a difficult mental health day is recognizing that you’re having one. Sometimes, it’s easy to ignore how we’re feeling and push forward, thinking that productivity or distraction will make things better. While there’s value in staying busy, ignoring your emotions can lead to more stress down the line, eventually causing you to burst.

You also need to be able to recognize the signs early. Are you feeling more irritable than usual? Is your mind racing with negative thoughts? Do you feel physically drained, like even the smallest tasks are monumental? These are all signs that your mental health might be struggling. It’s important to validate those feelings rather than dismiss them. Be gracious enough with yourself to say, “Today has been hard, and it’s okay to slow down.”

As cliche as it sounds, acknowledging that you’re not doing well is a brave first step. Once you’ve done that, you can move on to taking reasonable steps toward repairing your mental state. It’s about checking in with yourself and recognizing when you need a mental health break.

The Power of Small Acts of Self-Care

On a rough mental health day, even the idea of self-care can feel overwhelming. Grand gestures like a spa day or an expensive dinner may be unrealistic or overstimulating, but the good news is that self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant to be effective. In reality, small, manageable acts of kindness toward yourself (like making a warm cup of tea) can make a world of difference.

Let’s start with the basics. Have you had a glass of water today? Or eaten a full meal? When our mental health takes a turn for the worse, we forget the simplest things when our minds are clouded. Drinking water, eating a light snack, or taking a few deep breaths can help bring your focus back to the present. If you feel up to it, step outside for a few minutes. A short walk around the your neighborhood or a few moments of fresh air can improve your mood by giving you a mental reset.

Breathing exercises are another simple but effective tool to care for yourself. When you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, deep and intentional breathing can help calm your nervous system and slow down racing thoughts. Try inhaling for four seconds, holding your breath for four seconds, and exhaling for four seconds. Repeat this a few times until you feel a bit more grounded and breathing feels normal again.

💡 Reminder: Self-care doesn’t have to be a huge deal or a long-term commitment. It’s okay to take things one small step at a time.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

One of the most effective ways to support your mental health is by creating a comfortable environment. On days when you’re struggling, your space should be a sanctuary where you can rest, recharge, and feel yourself. A cluttered or stressful environment can add to your feelings of anxiety, so take a few moments to tidy up, if you feel up to it. Even small changes, like lighting a candle, putting on your comfort show, or opening a window, can transform your space to a place of peace and tranquility.

Setting boundaries is equally important. Sometimes, a rough mental health day requires you to say no to obligations or set limits with others. Never be afraid to tell people you need time for yourself. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for protecting your peace, and if they care about you, they won’t ask for one. Whether it’s turning off your phone for a few hours or politely declining social plans, your well-being comes first.

Allow yourself the proper time to rest, recharge, and take care of your own needs without guilt. It’s okay to prioritize yourself, especially on days when everything feels like too much. Create a space—both physically and emotionally—that lets you breathe. You are not selfish for needing some time to yourself.

The Role Comfortable Clothing Plays in Self-Care

It may sound trivial, but what you wear can have a surprising impact on how you feel, especially on a tough day. When your mind is weighed down by negative thoughts or stress, tight or uncomfortable clothes can add to the tension, making you feel like you need to claw your way out of them. But the right clothes can make a difference in your mood.

Wearing something soft, loose, and lightweight can help create a sense of ease. Whether it’s your favorite pair of sweats or an oversized t-shirt that makes you feel secure, comfort is key. There’s a reason why so many people have a “comfort outfit” or “comfort clothes”—it’s because clothes can provide both physical and emotional relief. Especially if there’s an emotional or nostalgic meaning attached to it. Soft fabrics, such as cotton or fleece, can give you a sense of coziness, almost like a hug in clothing form.

Here’s some soft clothing options that our team recommends:

✅ Pro tip: Dressing comfortably doesn’t equate to dressing frumpy. If looking good will also improve your mental well-being, there are ways to achieve a comfy yet stylish outfit. Yoga pants, a fitted t-shirt, and a zip-up hoodie is an extraordinarily cozy outfit, but would also be super cute outfit for running errands in. The same goes for shorts and an oversized t-shirt or leggings and a hoodie. 

Connecting with Others

While taking time for yourself is important, sometimes the best way to get through a difficult day is to talk it out with your friends or family. It’s easy to feel like you’re alone in your struggles, but the reality is that many people have been where you are. Getting in touch with a friend, family member, or even a mental health professional can provide the support and resources you need to get through a rough patch.

Just talking about what you’re going through can lighten the emotional load. You don’t have to fix everything on your own, and someone else may offer a perspective that you haven’t thought of. If you’re comfortable doing so, let someone you trust know what’s going on. Even if you don’t feel like having a deep conversation, just being in the presence of someone you trust or hearing a friendly voice can bring immeasurable comfort.

If your mental health struggles are more intense, rough days are turning into rough weeks, consider reaching out to a professional such as a therapist or counselor. Mental health professionals are trained to help you navigate through tough times, and seeking help is always a sign of strength, not weakness. You don’t have to carry the weight alone—there are people who want to lighten the load for you.

We’re Here for You

At Morningstar, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. We believe in fostering a supportive community where you can feel safe, seen, and heard. No one should have to go through rough mental health days alone, and it’s always alright to ask for help when you need it.

As a company that’s passionate about comfort and care, we’re here to remind you that self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s taking small steps to bring peace of mind or wrapping yourself in something comfortable, we’re honored to be a small part of your journey toward mental well-being. You are not just a customer to us; you’re part of the Morningstar community, and your mental health matters.

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