Many people suffer from some form of anxiety. Whether it is mild anxiety or dehibilitating anxiety it is exhausting, here are some tips to help you get through your moments of anxiety.
1. Think back to another time you experienced anxiety for a similar/same situation.
When you think of a time that caused you some anxiety it can help to realize that you got through it and you were fine. If you were able to do something and live to tell the tale, you can do it again. It can be hard, too hard sometimes, but the best you can do it try.
Photo by: Ryan McGuire
2. Do not try to stop the panic.
Instead, think about the situation that is making you feel this way. Try to understand it and work on turning it into something positive rather than the negative image you have made it out to be. Trying to stop the panic will not help you, only make it worse becaue you are trying so desperately to keep your anxiety away you are only making yourself more anxious.
Photo by: Ryan McGuire
3. Spend some time thinking about your anxiousness and what makes you feel anxious.
Some people might not want to spend time alone, or thinking about their anxiety, when they are feeling anxious and that’s ok. Spend time with people that make you feel good and reflect on your feelings and emotions.
If you would rather spend time alone it can help you connect with yourself. Think, journal, listen to music, do some exercise. Meditation can help you reduce your anxiety, or even going out for a small walk can give you time to think and come back to yourself.
Photo by: Luigi Morante
4. Drink more tea and less caffeine.
Caffiene free tea can help you calm you down. It doesn’t give you a burst of energy, it calms you and relaxes your body (calm down, obvs you can keep drinking your coffee in moderation).
Photo by: Jorge Garcia
Remember that when someone suffers a panic/anxiety attack, it isn’t their fault. They cannot stop this from happening, it just does. Only the anxiety sufferer knows when their anxiety is present and when it is not, only they know what they are comfortable doing and what they still need a little bit more time to allow themselves to do.
To help someone with anxiety you should be there for them but not too close if that isn’t what they want. Make sure they know that you are there to support and help them, but give them their space if they ask for it. Be nice, and understanding even if you do not FULLY understand what is happening. We all need to learn to be way more compassionate and understanding.
Photo by: Max Bender
Cover photo by: Joshua Newton