How to deal with nostalgia?

When we think about the past, it evokes positive feelings. When you listen to an old song, it causes an adrenaline rush. But these memories also have a downside: a lasting aftertaste with an unpleasant bite.

Did you know nostalgia was considered a mental health condition at one point? It was not until the 1900s that sociologist Fred Davis drew a clear distinction between nostalgia and depression.

If you feel nostalgic too often, you will likely face insomnia, concentration problems, and even depression.

How can you cope with this?

Below are some recommendations that will answer this question thoroughly.

Mindfulness

This will benefit when your nostalgic memories provoke feelings of sadness and emptiness. Instead of comparing your present and past, be grateful for what you have now and cherish those.

Look for satisfying relationships

When nostalgia causes longing for lost friends and loved ones, combat these feelings of loneliness by focusing on the essential people in your life right now. We know that new friendships or relationships might not replace your old bonds, but they will remind you that you have love, support, companionship, and most importantly, others value you.

Explore your feelings

Self-evaluation is the key here. It is okay to feel sad if you think about the past; the important thing is that you know how you feel and how you will move past these feelings.

Seeking support: if you can’t deal with these emotions, seek help from mental health professionals. Therapies have proven to have a significant effect.

So what is the bottom line here;

Things change, emotions change; what is essential is being focused on where you are today. Accept the past and move on knowing you are where you wanted to be.

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