Anxiety disorders are some of the most common and often underestimated mental illnesses. While millions of people have it, those who do not tend to have a lot of trouble understanding it.
There are about 40 million adults living in the US right now with some kind of anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders come in all different shapes and sizes and are never the exact same for anyone. If you are someone who suffers from anxiety in any form you know exactly what I mean.
When someone that struggles with their anxiety become stressed it can be a real shit show whether it is an actual shit show or just a shit show of the mind. Below I am going to go over some of the best tips and tricks to work with your mind and body to reduce anxiety and/or prevent severe attacks. While not all of these will work for everyone I am sure at least some of these will benefit you in some form. They have for the most part done a lot for me.
13 Psychological Tips and Tricks That People With Anxiety Need To Be Aware Of:
1. Write Down Your Feelings
Yes, write them all down. Whether or not you keep those writings is up to you. You can burn them or make them part of a journal, either way, you need to be getting these feelings out.
2. Spend Time With A Pet
You would be surprised how beneficial spending time with an animal you care for is. This will help make you feel more relaxed and loved. Pets and their owners have some intense connections.
3. Giggle A Bit
Laughing is a wonderful way of allowing your body to release some of whatever is going on inside. Sure, it might seem a bit odd but if it works, it works. Maybe give it a try?
4. Use Positive Self-Talk
If you are talking negatively about yourself then you’re going to feel negative. If you want to make yourself less anxious then use positive self-talk to motivate yourself through it. I use this one in a lot of different situations.
5. Breathe Mindfully
When you’re getting worked up remember to be mindful of your breathing. Breathe deeply and completely. Really allow it to help you unwind.
6. Meditate
Take a break and give yourself a moment to meditate. Meditation will allow you to clear your mind and relax more. This will have you ready to face things from a new perspective.
7. Observe Without Judgement
Observe your own thoughts and so forth without judging. The more we judge ourselves the more damage we do. You should be your own cheerleader, not your own enemy.
8. Focus On Right Now
Focus on the right now instead of the past or the future. Be in the present moment as best you can. Work on this more each and every day.
9. Start Coloring
Get a coloring book and have at it. Find one you like and use it to let yourself unwind. I love coloring now a lot more than I did when I was a child.
10. Use a Calming Visualization
Think of someone or something you care about. Maybe go somewhere else in your mind. Really allow your mind to remove you from your current situation even if just for a moment.
11. Settle Into Some Music
Music can help with anxiety tremendously. Pop in those earbuds and listen to whatever speaks to you. Music will really make a huge difference for most people.
12. Use Essential Oils
Find a scent that makes you feel relaxed and keep it on hand. Use this to help you relax yourself in those stressful moments. Something this small can make a huge difference.
13. Grab An Ice Cube
If you think you might be on the edge of a panic attack or anxiety attack take an ice cube and hold it in your hand. Close your eyes and quiet your soul. Allow the ice to melt and focus on it.
While some of these things are very simple they might be the change you need. Which ones have you tried and which ones will you be trying?