How to Overcome Anxiety
When you’ve been struggling with anxiety it can feel like a life sentence. Maybe you’ve tried a few treatments that haven’t worked? Or maybe you don’t know where to turn to get help? Are you tired of feeling anxious, stressed and out of control… and are you ready to change?
Fortunately, the right combination of lifestyle changes, cognitive approaches, and possibly medications can help you to reduce the symptoms and overcome anxiety!
1. People with strong social connections tend to cope with different life circumstances in a healthier way than those without these connections. Make new social connections to support you as you manage your anxiety. Join a local support group for anxiety-sufferers, participate in a religious or spiritual organization, or get together frequently with your favorite group of close friends.
2. Sleep and anxiety have a complex chicken-or-the-egg relationship. A lack of sleep can cause anxiety, and anxiety can result in sleep disturbance. To gain control of your anxiety, focus on getting at least seven hours of sleep each night.
3. In addition to maintaining overall physical health, exercise can have a profound impact on mental well-being. Physical activity generates endorphins, which are the body's feel-good chemicals. As a result, engaging in exercise regularly can relieve stress and distract you from worries.
4. You may not understand the connection between what you eat and how you feel, but it's definitely there. Certain foods and beverages like refined sugar or caffeine may worsen anxiety. Instead, drink plenty of water and eat healthy meals with a balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein.
5. You might drink alcohol to ease anxiety but find that it eventually worsens your condition. Look for a healthy outlet to stress and anxiety, such as listening to music or calling a friend, rather than turning to drugs or alcohol.
6. When battling a mental illness such as anxiety, you might become so focused on getting better and fulfilling responsibilities that you forget to practice regular self-care. Follow a routine to make sure you take care of your basic needs every day, like eating regular meals, bathing, and brushing your teeth. Additionally, do something for yourself every day to relieve stress. Make it extra special so that you have something to look forward to daily.
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