How to Cope With Anxiety
Anxiety is a normal part of life, but prolonged and excessive feelings of worry, fear or panic are not healthy. They can interfere with daily tasks and cause you to feel unwell.
If you’re struggling with excessive or long-term anxiety, it may be time to consult a health care provider. They can suggest an effective treatment plan that will help manage the disorder and lead you to a less stressful lifestyle.
Lifestyle changes, coping strategies and medication can all help alleviate anxiety symptoms. For instance, altering your diet and increasing physical activity are two simple ways to make yourself less anxious.
Exercise helps to focus your attention and relax the body, which can help reduce anxiety. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
Grounding exercises are effective for relieving anxiety. These techniques utilize all five senses – sight, sound, touch and taste – to help relax your mind and reduce tension in your body.
One of the best ways to manage anxiety is to frame it as a positive event. For instance, instead of worrying that you’ll lock yourself out of your house, think about all the great things that could happen if you did so.
Every night, take five minutes to reflect on your day and try to focus on the positive elements that occurred. Writing can help you feel more connected to life and provide you with a sense of control during times of stress.