Anxiety is a normal part of life. Occasionally, we all experience those feelings to some degree or another and can easily be triggered by any number of different situations we face in daily life. But people with anxiety disorders experience frequent and excessive anxiety, fear, terror, and panic in everyday situations. These feelings are unhealthy if they affect your quality of life and prevent you from functioning normally.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders Include:
- Feeling nervous
- Feeling helpless
- A sense of impending doom (or danger)
- Increased, or irregular, heartbeat
- Hyperventilation
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Obsessively thinking about the panic trigger
These feelings of anxiety and panic can interfere with daily activities and be difficult to control. While most people with anxiety disorders benefit from psychotherapy or medications to get their anxiety to be manageable, lifestyle changes and coping strategies can also make a difference. I’m going to share some strategies I’ve learned along the way, and some strategies that have been introduced to me by others who have shared the experience, and the success, that comes with applying these methods.
Strategies and tips for coping with an anxiety disorder:
- KEEP PHYSICALLY ACTIVE. Develop a routine so that you’re physically active most days of the week. Exercise is a powerful stress reducer. It helps to improve your mood and keeps you healthy.
- AVOID ALCOHOL AND RECREATIONAL DRUGS. These substances can cause or worsen anxiety. If you can’t quit on your own, seek help with Can-Am Interventions, an addictions counselor, or support group.
- NICOTINE AND CAFFEINE WORSEN ANXIETY. Quit smoking, and cut back, or quit caffeinated beverages.
- USE STRESS MANAGEMENT AND RELAXATION TECHNIQUES. Visualization techniques, meditation and yoga are some examples of relaxation techniques that help to ease anxiety.
- MAKE SLEEP A PRIORITY. Getting enough quality sleep every night is crucial to giving your mind and body the time it needs to recuperate.
- EAT HEALTHY FOODS. A healthy diet that can incorporate vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and fish have been linked to reduce anxiety (Processed foods have been linked to worsen mental health affects).
- LEARN TO UNDERSTAND YOUR DISORDER. Talk to mental health professionals to find out what might be causing your specific condition, and what treatments might be best for you. Don’t be afraid to involve family and friends for support.
- KEEP A JOURNAL. Keeping track of your personal life, the events in your day and your emotions will help you further identify what causes the stress and anxiety.
- SOCIALIZE. Do not let worries and inhibitions isolate you from loved ones or activities. Embrace help because we can rarely overcome large obstacles alone.
There are many ways we can overcome anxiety. With the help of Can-Am Interventions, or other mental health professionals, you can receive the treatment that you need immediately.
For More Information:
E: patti.pike@canaminterventions.com W: www.canaminterventions.com 1-800-638-1812 Toll Free Internationally
415-827-3725 Cell /Text 415-578-2875 Office