Anxiety is a common feeling in a person’s life, but those with anxiety disorders often experience frequent and excessive anxiety, fear, and panic in everyday situations. This can negatively impact a person’s life and health.
If your anxiety is affecting your everyday life, you should visit a healthcare professional. Many people find psychotherapy to be beneficial. Along with psychotherapy, it can be helpful to make some lifestyle changes and use coping strategies.
Here are 9 ways to help “conquer” anxiety:
1. Keep physically active
Staying physically active can help a person manage their anxiety. Exercise releases endorphins which creates a positive atmosphere. Physical activity also helps to establish a routine and provides structure.
2. Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and smoking
These substances are known to cause or increase anxiety over time.
3. Decrease the amount of caffeine consumed
Caffeine can increase anxiety and affect sleep patterns.
4. Use stress management and relaxation techniques
Some options include mindful breathing, muscle relaxation, or guided imagery
5. Make sleep a priority
Getting enough, restful sleep at night can help one’s body and mind better manage stressful situations
6. Eat healthy foods
Whole grains, nuts, and fatty fish can increase levels of serotonin, which can keep one’s mood balanced. Additionally, fruits and vegetables have high levels of antioxidants, which can help with stress.
7. Identify triggers
It is important to learn what situations or circumstances may trigger one’s anxiety. This way a person knows when the coping strategies one develops with their psychotherapist needs to be utilized and is better prepared.
8. Keep a journal
A journal can help organize one’s thoughts to get a better understanding and take control.
9. Socialize
It is important to spend time with those who love and support you.
You do not have to fight your anxiety alone. Find coping strategies that work for you and look into seeing a psychotherapist. The earlier you seek help, the faster you can be living your life to the fullest.
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