What Got Me Through Hospitalizations

Everyone has their ways of coping with certain situations and how to pass time. It could be through watching TV to playing games on your phone. Now let's take it back to before we had all of this technology and what people then would have done to pass time. During my hospitalizations, yes of course I watched TV or stayed on my phone, but I also did a lot of hands on things. I luckily had someone, my mother, to be in the hospital room to help pass the time. During these tough times, I brought back my family's old car ride trips such as mad libs, cross word puzzles, friendship bracelet making, drawing, coloring, cards, etc. There are so many things you can do in the hospital to get your mind off of your current situation. If you or your brain needs:

Laughter: The mad libs personally had my mom and I dying of laughter because of the random stories we came up with. It gave us laughter through the bad times.

Ease: When times get super tough try and color and focus while listening to some music. You can also draw or color something. Try and use your creativity. It will put your mind at ease and focus on other things besides the bad.

(a)Challenge: Give yourself a cross word puzzle. A cross word puzzle not only passes time but it also keeps your mind sharp. If you get really good try and finish puzzles in a timed manner. It will add a challenge!

Strength: Make a friendship bracelet for someone you are close to. It will remind you of the great friendships and family members you have and help you to keep pushing.

Relaxation: Play cards. I know to some this could be an oxymoron, but playing cards are proven to help you destress from current situations when it is just for fun and not hardcore competition.

source: Australian & New Zealand Mental Health Association

If you are going through a hard time try and follow these fun ideas besides using technology. Keep your mind sharp, keep fighting,and stay creative! You got this!