NoseWell
Tips and Advice
People with smell disorders are more likely to experience low mood and depression.
Here's some top tips to get through the difficult times from people who have lived it.
Move it!
Often this is the last thing you want to hear if you are feeling depressed. So what can get you motivated?
Start small. A walk around the block. Many of us report that exercise improves the recovering sense of smell. Getting moving also releases endorphins that make you feel better.
Join a class, a team or a club - something to take you away from your worries for a while.
Hobbies and handiwork
Getting lost in a hobby that uses your hands can be very therapeutic. Gardening, jigsaws, woodwork, crafting, colouring, sewing - whatever takes you away from your thoughts, is a good thing.
Reading, audio books and podcasts are a good way to escape negative thoughts and explore completely different topics.
The best therapy of all is to do something for someone else. Sign in to the AbScent Network and help someone who is new to smell loss.
Finding your way
Everyone agrees, this is a tough journey. Losing your sense of smell can feel like you've been banished to a strange place and you are far from home, your loved ones and the things you love most.
In time, you will get back. To get there, you will need to look inside, too. Meditation and breathing techniques can help. YouTube is a great place to find free resources. If one thing doesn't work for you, keep looking for others. The community is here for you so keep coming back to us when you need help.
Get it down on paper
One of the best ways to cope with chronic conditions is to keep a diary. There will be days when no one understands and you won't know where to take your sadness and frustration. Paper and pen are always waiting for you.
Journalling is recognised in the management of chronic pain and chronic illness to be a good way to cope. There are lots of free resources from respected mental health websites on the internet.