You are a perfectionist; you like to be in control, and you are a natural worry wart. Here are a few strategies to help you get rid of anxiety.
Adverse effects
Anxiety is even worse than stress; it can be aggravated by external events, but it can also be self-generated. It affects both the mind and the body, and it poisons the lives of those who suffer and their loved ones as well. At its worst, anxiety leads to depression and to numerous physical symptoms, such as insomnia, muscle pain, palpitations, and choking sensations. That’s why if you want to get rid of anxiety, it’s important to act now.
Learn to change your perceptions
To get started, begin by writing down what’s bothering you. You know, all those thoughts that keep circling in your head; the thoughts you keep ruminating on, non-stop. Putting them in writing can help you reason with your mind. You might become aware of the following things:
- you come to conclusions without proof
- you concentrate too much on a detail and then forget the general context
- you exaggerate the consequences of a fact
- you make erroneous associations between things
- you generalize, starting from a single event
Help, I’m panicking!
When you’re in panic mode, it’s often impossible to write your thoughts down. When that happens, sit down or stretch out and do some small exercises to control your breathing. Inflate your stomach—not your chest—when you breathe in; this relaxes the diaphragm and lets the lungs fill with air. Picture scenes that help you relax, such as waves on a sandy beach, a water fall, or birds singing in a forest. Doing this for ten minutes, three times a day, can help you get rid of anxiety.
Review your lifestyle
A healthy body helps maintain a healthy mind. Changing certain habits that are harmful to your body will contribute to your well-being. Proceed slowly and progressively to ensure that you don’t cause yourself further distress.
- Banish cigarettes and caffeine
- Consume alcohol in moderation
- Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and avoid fast food.
- Have a bath and drink herbal tea (chamomile or valerian) before bed to help you sleep
- Get moving! Get a membership at a gym, register for a martial arts or dance class, or take daily walks
- Set aside time on a regular basis to do an activity you enjoy, such as reading, painting, or gardening.
And where is the medication in all of this?
There are various schools of thought when it comes to the use of antianxiety agents or antidepressants. Some experts believe that only severe cases of generalized anxiety should be treated with these types of medications. Others feel that in order to get rid of anxiety, it is necessary to combine a clinical approach with psychological support. You should discuss these options with your doctor or a health professional at your local medical clinic.
Stop stressing over it
It might seem easier said than done, but if you would like to see your stress become a thing of the past, stop trying to control and anticipate everything. Learn to accept uncertainty. When you think about it, doesn’t it just add a little spice to life?
