PICK-ME-UPS: Things have been tough lately. Emotions are running high on the national level.

We find ourselves looking for ways to cheer up. Little things like walking in bare feet on grass, listening to happy music, buying fresh flowers, treating yourself to something like a decadent dessert, creating something in an art project, reading a book, calling a friend, taking a walk, or doing something that makes you happy.

Ask yourself what makes you happy. Do you have a favorite place to sit, like a porch swing or rocking chair? A favorite beverage, like flavored coffee or tea? Do you enjoy waking up early, taking in the quiet of the day?

Sometimes taking a break from things like social media or even the news (just not The Era, of course!) might be good for your mental health, too.

Plan a road trip with a friend or family. Some folks plan a full day to drive through several counties and visit thrift stores, looking for things to add to collections or just enjoying the time together.

Use the internet and look for neat places to visit along the way — Cook Forest, state parks, a few fairs that are still on the calendar for the year, like Bloomsburg Sept. 19 to 27.

A long, hot bath is a simple enjoyment. Freshly laundered sheets. The feel of a favorite blanket. 

If you are motivated to do something for others, check with your local senior centers, veterans organizations, food banks, libraries and other volunteer organizations to see if there’s something you can do or give to help others.

After all, we’re all in this together. If the state of the world is upsetting to you, it’s likely others feel the same way. Put out a helping hand rather than a shaming voice.