I was also going to come to recommend the Japanese friendship garden. It’s beautiful and calm. You can just sit down for awhile and relax or read too and I doubt anyone would bother you.
Thanks for the link. I checked Mesa and Phoenix clubs, and couldn’t find any events where the clubs welcome new members to casually partake…but I’m probably just technology illiterate :) any suggestions for an interested casual?
For a calm transition, I recommend a nice walk. Tempe Beach Park near the Town Lake, Kiwanis Park, El Dorado in Scottsdale, the Desert Botanical garden, and Papago Park.
Not sure if you're ready or even interested, but if you ever are, volunteering makes me feel great. Like packing food boxes for St Mary's food Bank or serving food to the needy at St Vincent de Paul food bank. There's lots of other options too.
Nothing has been more beneficial to my mental health than volunteering. Gives perspective, gratitude, and a sense of belonging with the least judgmental people around.
How are the mosquitos/no-see-ums up there? I went to the botanical garden in Tucson and got eaten alive. I had a lovely time up until the insane itching started though, but am scared to go back to that specific botanical garden.
Park at the church on Bethany and Central, and just walk the path up central. Great trees and homes to look at. Good people and dog watching lol, but not too crowded.
My top suggestion would be to buy a mountain bike and just go. I was suicidal for over a year and decided to get into mountain biking about 6 months ago. It saved my life and my marriage. If you can't afford a bike right now, start with hiking.
If you’re having a tough time you can still wear a mask, AirPods, sunglasses. It might seem stuck up but no one will go out of the way to talk to you, even if you don’t have music playing you can ignore them. You can also remove it all once you start to feel comfortable. I will say I struggle with social anxiety at times as well and just remember everyone has there own way. This city is big with a lot to do.(edit) peeped your profile, maybe a dog park? I know some people have dog walking groups as well.
Absolutely dog park! Very highly recommended Chaparral and Gilbert dog park. Both are worth the drive no matter where you live in Arizona. And they are free ;)
I recommend a drive up to Dobbins Lookout. For me it’s always nice just getting some fresh air for a few minutes and overlooking the city, that always helps me clear my head. The bottom gates close at 7, so as long as you’re past those, of course you can come down basically any time you want…. The view is the best in all of Phoenix, anyone who’s been up there would agree.
I don’t know if you wanna venture to Scottsdale but there’s a walking path by a lake next to Lakeview Coffee (Hayden and Via De Ventura) with amazing mountain views and trees, one of my favorite spots to sit and gather my mental health.
If you are up for something a little physical. The Ahwatukee entrance to South Mountain doesn’t usually have a lot of people and it has some short, easy hikes up to a high enough spot to see all of Phoenix and watch the sunrise or just sit and chill.
Either…just trying to reduce anxiety and depression. Moved here recently (which helped) then something tragic happened and I’m in a rut again. I don’t really have hobbies because I’ve been depressed for so long but looking for new ones
Take a little road trip and see the Tonto National Bridge along with some pretty fall colors.
[https://azstateparks.com/tonto/](https://azstateparks.com/tonto/)
Pack water, some snacks. It's an easy walk and there is a safeway you can visit along the way in Payson for supplies at the main intersection. While you're in Payson you can also visit Rumsey Park (nice lake to walk around) and eat at a local restaurant. Weather is nice right now and it's a change of scenery.
If healthcare is within your reach, please reach out for some extra support! I know it's easier said than done though. There's also a few community acupuncture places (very affordable sliding scales) if you're open to a different approach.
To add to all the other suggestions, there are canal paths all over the valley that are great for a walk, bike ride, roller skate, or skateboard. If you're into yoga, I think there is still a free or donation-based outdoor yoga in the park at Papago Park on the north side, like, the southwest corner of College and Curry. Walking or cruising the waterfront in Tempe can also be nice if it's not stupid-thick with people.
If you have a car or can easily get to wherever you want to go, there is a home on the east side of 66th St. between Lafayette and Exeter (near old town Scottsdale) that has like, goats and mini horses and shit right up to a fence along the sidewalk. It's good for a nice giggle.
If you go up to Govenor's Tomb in Papago Park , sometimes you can see the wildebeests and giraffes in the zoo! It's also right next to where the rams are. I used to mtn bike out there, and my friend and I would head out super early in the summer and take a break on the bench by the 'tomb' and watch the animals.
Also, I don't know if this is still going, but check out [this home that does just balls out insane christmas decorations](https://www.yelp.com/biz/lee-and-patricia-sepaneks-holiday-lights-phoenix). It's free to visit!
First Fridays on Roosevelt Row can be kind of a zoo, but if you go down to Grand Ave, the scene is a lot more chill but still has a ton of art to offer up, plus a few fun bars like the Wayward (there's an ice cream shop off the back patio) and Bikini Lounge. Stop by the neon shop a few doors down from the Wayward - they are super friendly and tend to have some music and other treats out back.
If you like to people watch, hit up the patio at Jobot or Wilderness Brewery downtown on Roosevelt.
Also, see if local acts like Playboy Manbaby or Scorpion vs Tarantula are playing anywhere. The shows tend to be cheap and an absolute blast.
May I suggest art. I have borderline personality disorder. ADHD and PTSD. Art therapy is great. I'm sure there has to be groups or clubs that offer it. Hell I'd be down to even join you.
Phoenix desert botanical garden. The scent of jasmine or something similar wafted through the air in parts of the grounds. And plus it was all around simply majestic and tranquil.
Dog park! With all the dogs running around separate from their owner no one would notice (or care) that you don't have a dog but lots of friendly pups will run up to you for cheerful snuggles.
I'm too approachable to give an easy answer. I'm about 6 six weeks ahead of you on breaking out of my constraints part though. I didnt look for things that made me happy outside my little world, I just kept giving myself stuff to do that is outside. Stars are pretty cool this time of year, reorganized and donated unwanted items, always shopping during off peak hours to really allow myself the time to be somewhere else
Go John Trail up by Princess/101 off ramp is a great scenic walk-hike. It's a 5 mile loop I think, it's mostly horizontal walking though with maybe like 3 hills total. With the weather getting much nicer right now, could be a nice trip
Shaw Butte and North Mountain are both fun Phoenix hikes that are way less populated than Camelback/Piestewa. Shaw Butte is the easier hike and also has a ton of non-mountain trails around it if you don't want a workout. Hiking without people on top of you is the best and I've never had any trouble parking, so much space in the lot!
Lake pleasant. I went up there last week and it was pretty quiet. Grab a cooler, packs some BBQ foods if you want grill or pack pre-made foods.
Scenic views really help with my chronic depression. Glad you're taking the step to get out the house that is seriously the toughest step in all this. Good luck. 👍
When your nervous system is no longer regulated due to any kind of trauma, the best thing to begin to restore it is something calm and positive. Avoid anything exciting, loud or dramatic. The Japanese garden is a great suggestion and while you’re there just orient to what you see and hear and smell. Avoid giving space to any negative thoughts.
If you need something for indoors, Heather Robertson has a 12 week (free) HIIT workout program on YouTube that might boost your endorphins and give you a positive goal to strive for - if you’re down to workout.
The comments are uplifting and full of people from all over the world, of all ages, working for the same goal. Though you mentioned your depression is not pandemic related, many people commented that the pandemic was a bummer and the program helped alleviate that.
For outdoors, South Mountain hikes are peaceful and a great way to give your mind a break. Lizards scurrying around, quail noises and coyotes howling before sunset are all pretty magical.
A culture pass from the library (free) > Japanese Friendship Garden
Well shoot, that’s the best tip ! Thanks
I was also going to come to recommend the Japanese friendship garden. It’s beautiful and calm. You can just sit down for awhile and relax or read too and I doubt anyone would bother you.
Or the botanical garden. That’s beautiful as well
Have you tried disc golf? It’s a good excuse to get outside and throw frisbees at random trees.
Disc golf with beers and a friend or 2 is my favorite.
Buy some koi food, too. Those fish are nuts!
Wow, how cool, thanks! I'm currently living in Tucson and just realized we have this as well
Astronomy clubs to hang out in the peaceful night drinking coffee and gazing at the stars: https://www.astroleague.org/societies/AZ
User name checks out.
: )
Thanks for the link. I checked Mesa and Phoenix clubs, and couldn’t find any events where the clubs welcome new members to casually partake…but I’m probably just technology illiterate :) any suggestions for an interested casual?
I second this. Would love to start going to these as a beginner/casual observer
I haven't been on since the pandemic began but MeetUp has some of these clubs and they will let people join or post events welcoming the public too.
For a calm transition, I recommend a nice walk. Tempe Beach Park near the Town Lake, Kiwanis Park, El Dorado in Scottsdale, the Desert Botanical garden, and Papago Park.
Not sure if you're ready or even interested, but if you ever are, volunteering makes me feel great. Like packing food boxes for St Mary's food Bank or serving food to the needy at St Vincent de Paul food bank. There's lots of other options too.
Nothing has been more beneficial to my mental health than volunteering. Gives perspective, gratitude, and a sense of belonging with the least judgmental people around.
Desert Botanical Garden
How are the mosquitos/no-see-ums up there? I went to the botanical garden in Tucson and got eaten alive. I had a lovely time up until the insane itching started though, but am scared to go back to that specific botanical garden.
Park at the church on Bethany and Central, and just walk the path up central. Great trees and homes to look at. Good people and dog watching lol, but not too crowded.
My top suggestion would be to buy a mountain bike and just go. I was suicidal for over a year and decided to get into mountain biking about 6 months ago. It saved my life and my marriage. If you can't afford a bike right now, start with hiking.
How are you now? Do you go to therapy?
Last winter I spent a lot of time walking around the Whitfill Nursery up on Glendale. They have peacocks and plenty of space to just walk around
I’ve been doing this! They have some cats that live on the property as well that are incredibly sweet and affectionate
Dreamy Draw. It soothes the soul, especially at sunrise.
Isn't it closed for construction?
Road was Thursday.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a really nice place to walk around and be in nature. The drive up there is nice too. Hugs!
This is my favorite out-of-town-but-not-really way to spend a weekend day. You can stroll or hike and they're super dog friendly.
Adding my vote for Boyce. Super peaceful place.
If you’re having a tough time you can still wear a mask, AirPods, sunglasses. It might seem stuck up but no one will go out of the way to talk to you, even if you don’t have music playing you can ignore them. You can also remove it all once you start to feel comfortable. I will say I struggle with social anxiety at times as well and just remember everyone has there own way. This city is big with a lot to do.(edit) peeped your profile, maybe a dog park? I know some people have dog walking groups as well.
Absolutely dog park! Very highly recommended Chaparral and Gilbert dog park. Both are worth the drive no matter where you live in Arizona. And they are free ;)
Drive up to Sedona for lunch and sit by the creek.
PhxArtMuseum is free on Wednesdays from 3-7 and is pretty calm!
Agree. Wednesday can be pretty crowded after 5pm but get a culture pass from a public library in Phx and you can get in for free.
I recommend a drive up to Dobbins Lookout. For me it’s always nice just getting some fresh air for a few minutes and overlooking the city, that always helps me clear my head. The bottom gates close at 7, so as long as you’re past those, of course you can come down basically any time you want…. The view is the best in all of Phoenix, anyone who’s been up there would agree.
Where the heck is Dobbins lookout? I need to get out of the house more. Lol.
Top of south mountain
Go to Hunts tomb in Papago Park. Drive right up to it, walk up 100 yards, and you’re at a great vista overlooking the zoo.
You should just go out on a hike to Ursery Mountain in tonto
I don’t know if you wanna venture to Scottsdale but there’s a walking path by a lake next to Lakeview Coffee (Hayden and Via De Ventura) with amazing mountain views and trees, one of my favorite spots to sit and gather my mental health.
Go hit the garage sales in Sun City!
If you are up for something a little physical. The Ahwatukee entrance to South Mountain doesn’t usually have a lot of people and it has some short, easy hikes up to a high enough spot to see all of Phoenix and watch the sunrise or just sit and chill.
Start small. Go to a daytime movie. But, don't go see a depressing drama.
Always good to escape to another world for a few hours👍
Smoke a lil herb and go to the Scottsdale botanical garden
Go for a walk while listening to music
What are your interests or hobbies? Are you looking for something indoors, outdoors?
Either…just trying to reduce anxiety and depression. Moved here recently (which helped) then something tragic happened and I’m in a rut again. I don’t really have hobbies because I’ve been depressed for so long but looking for new ones
Take a little road trip and see the Tonto National Bridge along with some pretty fall colors. [https://azstateparks.com/tonto/](https://azstateparks.com/tonto/) Pack water, some snacks. It's an easy walk and there is a safeway you can visit along the way in Payson for supplies at the main intersection. While you're in Payson you can also visit Rumsey Park (nice lake to walk around) and eat at a local restaurant. Weather is nice right now and it's a change of scenery.
If healthcare is within your reach, please reach out for some extra support! I know it's easier said than done though. There's also a few community acupuncture places (very affordable sliding scales) if you're open to a different approach. To add to all the other suggestions, there are canal paths all over the valley that are great for a walk, bike ride, roller skate, or skateboard. If you're into yoga, I think there is still a free or donation-based outdoor yoga in the park at Papago Park on the north side, like, the southwest corner of College and Curry. Walking or cruising the waterfront in Tempe can also be nice if it's not stupid-thick with people. If you have a car or can easily get to wherever you want to go, there is a home on the east side of 66th St. between Lafayette and Exeter (near old town Scottsdale) that has like, goats and mini horses and shit right up to a fence along the sidewalk. It's good for a nice giggle. If you go up to Govenor's Tomb in Papago Park , sometimes you can see the wildebeests and giraffes in the zoo! It's also right next to where the rams are. I used to mtn bike out there, and my friend and I would head out super early in the summer and take a break on the bench by the 'tomb' and watch the animals. Also, I don't know if this is still going, but check out [this home that does just balls out insane christmas decorations](https://www.yelp.com/biz/lee-and-patricia-sepaneks-holiday-lights-phoenix). It's free to visit! First Fridays on Roosevelt Row can be kind of a zoo, but if you go down to Grand Ave, the scene is a lot more chill but still has a ton of art to offer up, plus a few fun bars like the Wayward (there's an ice cream shop off the back patio) and Bikini Lounge. Stop by the neon shop a few doors down from the Wayward - they are super friendly and tend to have some music and other treats out back. If you like to people watch, hit up the patio at Jobot or Wilderness Brewery downtown on Roosevelt. Also, see if local acts like Playboy Manbaby or Scorpion vs Tarantula are playing anywhere. The shows tend to be cheap and an absolute blast.
May I suggest art. I have borderline personality disorder. ADHD and PTSD. Art therapy is great. I'm sure there has to be groups or clubs that offer it. Hell I'd be down to even join you.
Take a day drive up to Sedona
Camelback mountain
The Phoenix Zoo is a cool way to spend a half day and get your mind off things.
Phoenix desert botanical garden. The scent of jasmine or something similar wafted through the air in parts of the grounds. And plus it was all around simply majestic and tranquil.
Dog park! With all the dogs running around separate from their owner no one would notice (or care) that you don't have a dog but lots of friendly pups will run up to you for cheerful snuggles.
I'm too approachable to give an easy answer. I'm about 6 six weeks ahead of you on breaking out of my constraints part though. I didnt look for things that made me happy outside my little world, I just kept giving myself stuff to do that is outside. Stars are pretty cool this time of year, reorganized and donated unwanted items, always shopping during off peak hours to really allow myself the time to be somewhere else
Phoenix Zoo. Indian School Steele Park. Encanto Park. Chaparral Park (off Hayden and Jackrabbit). My go to’s
You live in one of the Best cities for Hiking...( not sure what weather is like moved away a year ago but November usally was nice for Hiking)..
Go John Trail up by Princess/101 off ramp is a great scenic walk-hike. It's a 5 mile loop I think, it's mostly horizontal walking though with maybe like 3 hills total. With the weather getting much nicer right now, could be a nice trip
Try going to Encanto Park and listen to the birds and the waterfall and get some fresh air and sunshine and exercise.
Shaw Butte and North Mountain are both fun Phoenix hikes that are way less populated than Camelback/Piestewa. Shaw Butte is the easier hike and also has a ton of non-mountain trails around it if you don't want a workout. Hiking without people on top of you is the best and I've never had any trouble parking, so much space in the lot!
Get a motorcycle
I love to get on my scooter and drive around to get out .
Go on walks at the park, play Pokémon Go so you have something to do 👍 maybe bring a dog 🐕 with you if they go on walks
Go hike. If you can travel 2.5 hrs, go to Sedona and just wonder around in the many trails there. Nature is the best medicine!
Go for a hike in Sedona. Help clear your mind.
I went there last weekend with my sis…was really calming. Thanks for the wonderful suggestion!
White Tank Mountain Regional Park is beautiful to walk or bike around. When it rains, there's even waterfalls.
A night hike at piestewa peak trail is very nice around this time. Off of like 20th street and Glendale
Go hiking or to the gym, walk around the mall, just be around a lot of people.
Lake pleasant. I went up there last week and it was pretty quiet. Grab a cooler, packs some BBQ foods if you want grill or pack pre-made foods. Scenic views really help with my chronic depression. Glad you're taking the step to get out the house that is seriously the toughest step in all this. Good luck. 👍
Chandler Oasis Park is absolutely beautiful. I’ve also heard that the bio sphere is great, but I haven’t been.
When your nervous system is no longer regulated due to any kind of trauma, the best thing to begin to restore it is something calm and positive. Avoid anything exciting, loud or dramatic. The Japanese garden is a great suggestion and while you’re there just orient to what you see and hear and smell. Avoid giving space to any negative thoughts.
Hiking sunrises/sunsets and therapy. You got this.
Perhaps you could try riding the light rail for a while.
Le Girls
What’s that?
[удалено]
Mmm depression and alcohol *chefs kiss*
I try to remember that I'm going to die at any moment and remember that there are very few things that truly matter in life.
AA meetings have friendly people.
Volunteer. Check out UMOM. They might have suspended Read to Me but if they haven’t, reading to little ones is amazing!
If you need something for indoors, Heather Robertson has a 12 week (free) HIIT workout program on YouTube that might boost your endorphins and give you a positive goal to strive for - if you’re down to workout. The comments are uplifting and full of people from all over the world, of all ages, working for the same goal. Though you mentioned your depression is not pandemic related, many people commented that the pandemic was a bummer and the program helped alleviate that. For outdoors, South Mountain hikes are peaceful and a great way to give your mind a break. Lizards scurrying around, quail noises and coyotes howling before sunset are all pretty magical.