You're telling me to drink water?

There is an Instagram reel currently being shared with audio that goes like this: “I’ve been feeling really down these days and I don’t know why?” “Have you exercised today?” “No.” “Did you go outside?” “No.” “Did you talk to anyone?” “No.” And on and on the list goes, naming helpful coping skills to a simply stated “no” in response.

I laugh every time I see it because it really is so true. I can often see how few coping skills I actually reach for when I’m having an off day. And I also see it in the counseling office.

We know the things we need to do to help us feel better, but we are just stuck. I have worked with a lot of people with anxiety, and before we ever get down to talk therapy, I have to find out things like, “What do you typically drink on a normal day?” More often than not, I’m met with a response like, “Three cups of coffee and a soda.” My personal favorite was when a client with crippling anxiety threw himself into the chair across from mine, complaining about how bad his anxiety was everyday. As we started to discuss his nutrition, he shared they were drinking three Monster energy drinks per day. Well, yeah, it's no wonder this anxiety won’t leave you alone!

Water. It really is so easy. Are you drinking enough water? If you are filling your empty belly with caffeine first thing in the morning and carrying that habit throughout your day, yes, my friend, you may have some pretty intense generalized anxiety, and it can feel pretty miserable.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 43% of adults drink less than 4 cups of water a day, which is below the recommended daily intake. Research shows that even slight dehydration can have a negative impact on mood and cognitive function, leading to an increase in depression and anxiety.

So, today’s reminder is a simple one: drink your water. Your brain and body will be much happier. This habit will also help promote self-care and a general sense of well-being, which often will push you to make other healthy choices in your life.