Although it’s normal to have apprehension about a big event or life change, anxiety can have a serious impact on your quality of life. It’s important to find strategies and coping skills that can help you manage chronic or severe anxiety. There are many different ways to do this, from making certain lifestyle changes to seeking counseling for anxiety in Las Vegas.
When you’re feeling stressed or anxious, taking action to calm your anxiety can prevent it from escalating. Being proactive is also important and can stop anxiety before it even starts. If you feel anxiety coming on or just want to be calmer and more settled in general, you can:
Getting plenty of oxygen to your brain can calm your nervous system and help anxiety dissipate. If you’re feeling anxious or worried, take a few deep, mindful breaths, inhaling and exhaling slowly.
Lack of sleep can put even the most easygoing person on edge. Keep track of your sleeping patterns and try to get at least 6 – 8 hours of sleep per night.
Daily exercise floods your brain with endorphins and hormones that make you feel good. When you’re anxious, even taking a short walk can make a huge difference in the way you feel.
Meditation, yoga and other practices that increase mindfulness can actually take you out of your head and put a stop to obsessive or irrational thinking.
Whether you enjoy reading, making art, listening to music, taking a hot bath, or watching a funny movie, doing something you like can help make you feel happier and more at ease.
A diet that’s rich in vital nutrients and keeping your blood sugar stable by eating small, frequent meals can help you feel more physically and mentally healthy.
Drinking too much caffeine or alcohol can exacerbate anxiety and even trigger panic attacks.
Calling a friend or family member who makes you laugh can interrupt negative or anxious thoughts.
When you find yourself catastrophizing situations or speculating on the worst-case scenario, make an effort to replace these thoughts with positive ones. Ask yourself, “Is this realistic thinking? Is it anything I can control?” You may find that the answer is often “no.”
Perfectionism and self-criticism only contribute to anxiety and can keep you from enjoying life and achieving goals. Be kind to yourself and remember that there’s no such thing as perfect.
If certain situations or people trigger anxiety, either avoid them or find ways to deal with your feelings when it happens.
Telling supportive friends and family you’re struggling and letting them know how they can help can take a huge burden off your shoulders. Seeking counseling for anxiety with a licensed therapist can help you understand the root of your anxiety and learn coping techniques that allow you to live the life you want.
Counselors at Kayenta Therapy offer in-person or teletherapy counseling for anxiety that can help put you on a path to happiness and peace. Contact a therapist directly to get started.
