How to Find Happiness Again: Overcome Unhappiness, Emptiness, and Low Mood in Ireland
Understanding the Search for Happiness: Why Do We Feel Unhappy?
Happiness isn’t just a fleeting emotion—it’s a sustained state of emotional well-being that contributes to a fulfilled life. Yet, many individuals find themselves searching for solutions to feelings of unhappiness, emptiness, and low mood. If you’re struggling to feel happy, you’re not alone. These feelings can arise from various life challenges, such as emotional trauma, relationship struggles, unresolved issues from the past, or even simple burnout.
The pursuit of happiness often becomes more challenging when we feel disconnected from joy or when negative emotions take over our daily lives. But the good news is, happiness isn’t a permanent state of mind—it’s something you can work towards with the right tools and support.
For those living in Ireland—whether in Adare, Newcastle West, Midleton, Youghal, Cork, Dungarven, or anywhere else—experiencing these feelings, the right psychotherapy and counselling services can make all the difference in your emotional well-being. Let’s explore the concept of happiness, what gets in the way, and how to break through these barriers.
The Opposite of Happiness: What People Feel When They Are Unhappy
When you’re feeling unhappy or emotionally numb, it’s important to recognise the root cause of these feelings. People often search for help online when they feel:
- Overwhelmed by emotional numbness
- Trapped in a cycle of low mood
- Unable to find joy in things that once brought happiness
- Disconnected from loved ones and social life
- Exhausted from stress and anxiety
- Stuck in negative thinking patterns that prevent any form of emotional relief
Why do these emotions occur?
These negative feelings may arise due to various underlying reasons. Whether it’s chronic stress, unresolved trauma, relationship problems, or even just a busy life that leads to burnout, the feeling of emptiness can pervade one’s daily existence. This emotional drain can often lead to physical symptoms, such as fatigue, irritability, or sleep disturbances, which in turn affect your overall quality of life.
What Does It Mean to Be Happy? Understanding True Happiness
True happiness isn’t just about temporary pleasure—it’s about finding peace, purpose, and connection in your life. Happiness can be defined as a balance of emotional well-being, life satisfaction, and a sense of meaning. Psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky emphasised that 40% of our happiness is within our control, shaped by our mindset, habits, and the choices we make.
Happiness involves:
- Emotional well-being: Regular experiences of positive emotions.
- Purpose and meaning: Engaging in activities that align with your values.
- Life satisfaction: Being content with where you are in life, regardless of external factors.
The Three Main Types of Happiness: Finding the Right Path
In his works, Aristotle distinguished between three types of happiness, which can help people understand what they are truly searching for:
- Hedonia – Pleasure-Based Happiness
This form of happiness is focused on seeking pleasure and avoiding pain. It can come from indulging in your favourite foods, attending a concert, or getting a promotion at work. These moments bring joy, but they are often fleeting and don’t lead to long-term fulfilment. If you’re constantly searching for external validation or short bursts of excitement, you may feel unhappy once those experiences fade away. - Engagement – Flow-Based Happiness
Engagement refers to happiness that comes from being deeply involved in activities you love. When you are in a “flow” state—fully immersed in an activity that requires your full attention, such as a hobby, work, or volunteering—you experience happiness that is meaningful and fulfilling. If you’ve been feeling emotionally drained and uninspired, engaging in flow activities can provide a sense of purpose and deeper satisfaction. - Eudaimonia – Meaning-Based Happiness
This form of happiness is the most enduring. It comes from living a life that aligns with your values and purpose. Individuals who experience eudaimonic happiness find joy in simple things like spending time with loved ones, pursuing personal growth, and contributing to the well-being of others. If you’ve been feeling empty or stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts, embracing eudaimonia can help you find the inner peace and joy you’ve been searching for.
The Life-Changing Benefits of Happiness: Why It Matters
The impact of happiness goes beyond emotional fulfilment. Studies show that happiness can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety: Happier people tend to have lower cortisol levels, which reduces the risk of chronic stress and anxiety.
- Improve physical health: Happiness has been linked to better heart health, a stronger immune system, and a lower risk of chronic illnesses.
- Increase life expectancy: Happiness has been associated with a longer, healthier life.
- Enhance relationships: Happy people are more likely to form strong, supportive relationships, which are critical for emotional well-being.
- Increase motivation and productivity: A positive mindset can lead to greater success in personal and professional pursuits.
9 Proven Ways to Increase Happiness and Overcome Unhappiness
If you are struggling with unhappiness, low mood, or emotional exhaustion, here are some effective, evidence-based strategies to help you feel better and reconnect with joy:
1. Set Personal, Meaningful Goals
Setting goals that align with your core values provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether it’s professional success, personal growth, or improved relationships, achieving meaningful goals boosts self-esteem and happiness.
2. Practice Daily Gratitude
Gratitude has been shown to shift your focus from what’s lacking in life to what’s already good. Keeping a gratitude journal and writing down three things you’re thankful for each day is a simple way to start.
3. Engage in Enjoyable, Flow Activities
Participating in activities that fully absorb your attention—whether that’s creative expression, volunteering, or a deep hobby—can trigger flow and give you a sense of happiness that transcends temporary pleasures.
4. Cultivate Positive Relationships
Having supportive, loving relationships plays a crucial role in happiness. Make an effort to strengthen existing bonds and reach out to others for social support. Happiness is contagious, and being around positive people can uplift your spirit.
5. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity releases endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress. Even a 20-minute walk or a quick workout can significantly boost your happiness levels.
6. Eat a Balanced Diet
Your diet plays a direct role in your mood and energy levels. Nutrient-rich, whole foods support emotional stability, while processed foods and sugary snacks can cause mood swings and low energy.
7. Prioritise Sleep
Good sleep is crucial for emotional regulation. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night to improve mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
8. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness practices like meditation can help you stay present, reduce anxiety, and increase feelings of contentment. Studies show that daily meditation can rewire the brain to focus on positive emotions.
9. Seek Professional Support
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we need professional help to overcome deep-rooted unhappiness or emotional distress. Speaking with a therapist can provide you with the tools you need to break free from negative thought patterns and rediscover joy.
How Our Therapy Services Can Help You Overcome Unhappiness
If you’re struggling with unhappiness, emotional numbness, or low mood, professional support can be the key to transforming your life. At Claire Russell Therapy, we offer a comprehensive range of expert services tailored to help you find lasting happiness:
1. Counselling
Counselling provides a safe space to explore and address emotional issues such as stress, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. Whether you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, counselling can help you process emotions, gain clarity, and develop healthier coping strategies.
2. Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy delves deeper into the underlying causes of unhappiness, such as trauma, unresolved conflicts, or negative thought patterns. This therapeutic process helps you gain insight, heal from the past, and create lasting emotional change.
3. Couples Counselling & Marriage Counselling
If relationship problems are contributing to your unhappiness, couples counselling can help you and your partner improve communication, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust. Strengthening your relationship can lead to increased happiness and emotional fulfilment.
4. RTT (Rapid Transformational Therapy)
RTT is a powerful therapy that combines the best elements of Clinical Hypnotherapy, NLP, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), hypnotherapy, and psychotherapy. This transformative approach helps you overcome limiting beliefs and behaviours that are holding you back from happiness and success.
5. Clinical Medical Hypnotherapy and Clinical Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy accesses the subconscious mind to address deep-rooted issues, such as emotional trauma or stress. By tapping into the subconscious, we can create lasting change and help you rediscover emotional balance and peace.
6. Hypnosis & Hypnotherapy for Addictions
Addictions often prevent individuals from experiencing true happiness. Hypnosis and hypnotherapy can help you break free from unhealthy habits, reduce cravings, and regain control over your life.
Book a Consultation Today
If you’re ready to take the next step towards happiness, Claire Russell Therapy offers both online sessions and in-person appointments in Adare, Newcastle West, Abbeyfeale, Midleton, Youghal, Cork, and Dungarven. Whether you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or emotional numbness, we have the tools and expertise to guide you towards lasting emotional health.
Book a consultation today and begin your journey toward emotional balance and true happiness.
Scientific References:
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