There's a dark cloud hanging over a stretch of America.


A poll released in February ranked the 10 happiest states[1] in the union, but it also identified a so-called "sadness belt." Spanning 10 states from Louisiana to Ohio, the area was found to be the saddest in the country, according to the latest rankings from the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index[2] .


But what makes a state sad? HuffPost Live's Alex Berg[3] talked with Maryland-based psychologist Dr. Mary K. Alvord on Wednesday about the factors that contribute to statewide gloom.


Alvord said the most important part of determining happiness -- or sadness -- is the balance between emotional and physical health.


"They really feed on one another. If you are physically healthy, you are more likely to be able to engage socially, you can work better, you are able to do so much more and feel empowered," Alvord said.


Check out the in-depth discussion on the nation's saddest states at HuffPost Live here[4] .




Also on HuffPost:




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  • Watch A Disney Movie


    It's hard to stay sad when you're watching your favorite feel-good animated flick. Let yourself be a kid again by curling up with a good comfort food (mac and cheese!) and popping some Disney into the DVD player.




  • Have A Big Mug Of Hot Chocolate


    There are few things more comforting than indulging in a sweet, warm beverage served up in your favorite mug. Sip slowly and enjoy.




  • Cuddle With An Animal


    There's no better way to take it easy and ride out a bad day than a good cuddle -- so grab your cat or dog (or borrow a friend's!) and let your stress fade away.




  • Browse The "Positivity" Page On Tumblr


    Tumblr can be a wonderful source of positive inspiration -- search tags like "happiness" and "positivity," and reblog your favorite images and words of wisdom.




  • Talk To Someone You Love


    Whether it's your mom, your siggo, or your BFF, call the person who's always there for you and let them know you could use a little cheering up.




  • Take A Walk Outside


    Sometimes, getting a bit of fresh air can be the best thing to clear your mind, so head to a local park or green space for a long solo walk. One of our Twitter followers also <a href="https://twitter.com/patricklorenzo_/status/291259774962642944">says</a> that running helps him to cheer up.




  • Bake Some Chocolate Chip Cookies


    Like drawing, writing or exercising, the act of baking can help distract you from all the things that are bothering you and allow you to focus on something productive. Plus, you'll have a delicious treat to enjoy when you're done!




  • Put On Your Comfiest Sweatpants


    Life is better when you're lounging in your coziest pair of track bottoms. It just is.




  • Take A Long, Hot Shower


    When you're nice and squeaky clean, everything feels better!




  • Just Breathe


    Taking five minutes to meditate -- or even just 10 long, deep breaths -- is a guaranteed way to calm both your mind and your body.




  • Put On Non-Depressing Music


    Even though you may be tempted to turn on something that mirrors the way you're feeling ("Someone Like You" by Adele, anyone?) try to force yourself to listen to something more inspiring and upbeat, even if it's not your first instinct. You'll be surprised how much lighter, more energetic background music can affect your mood.




  • Listen To Nature Sounds


    Using a sound machine or <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/relaxing-sounds-nature-lite/id345747251?mt=8">free app</a>, putting one soothing nature sounds in the background -- think birds chirping, waves crashing, or the crackling of a bright campire -- while you're cleaning or napping. You might be surprised how much the sounds help you to relax and quite the negative thoughts in your mind.




  • Hang A Positive Quote Up On Your Wall


    One of <a href="https://twitter.com/OliviasOpinions">our Twitter followers</a> tweeted: "So I made this thing and now I'm putting it on my wall because these words are amazing." Find a quote that inspires you to stay strong and hang it in your room as a daily reminder.




  • Write In Your Journal


    There's a lot of truth to the "The Sound Of Music" lyrics, "I simply remember my favorite things and then I don't feel so bad." So instead of dwelling on your negative thoughts, write a list of all the simple things that make you happy. We'll help you get started: 1. raindrops on roses, 2. whiskers on kittens..




  • Force Yourself To Laugh


    After you've put on your most comfortable pair of sweatpants and made a big mug of tea or hot chocolate, settle into the couch and get ready to laugh (or at least smile a little bit...) by watching your favorite comedy flick or TV show. If you're looking for something new, check out this list of the <a href="http://www.pastemagazine.com/blogs/lists/2012/11/the-20-best-comedy-movies-on-netflix-instant.html">20 best comedy films on Netflix</a>. (And yes, <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/news/cats">adorable kitten videos</a> on YouTube also count.)




  • Compile A Book Of Inspiring Quotes


    HuffPost Teen blogger @filmgeek520 <a href="https://twitter.com/filmgeek520/status/291257248796274689">shares</a>, "I have a list of inspirational quotes that a look at to help build my self esteem." Try creating your own collection of motivation quotes to turn to for inspiration when you're feeling down in the dumps.