Occasional feelings of anxiety are part of life. They can even be a positive thing, helping you focus and motivating you to do your best.
But when anxiety becomes frequent, even constant, and excessive, it can rob you of your inner peace and enjoyment of life. Excessive anxiety can also lead to fear, terror, and panic attacks in everyday situations.
If you’ve been diagnosed with anxiety, what are some practical steps you can take to help yourself cope?
At Inside Wellness Counseling in sunny Utah Valley, our team of therapists specializes in helping individuals struggling with all kinds of anxiety. Here are some tips we’ve put together for you to help you do what you can to cope:
Get good quality sleep
Sleep is vital to life. Good quality sleep is essential to our mental health and well-being. Keeping your bedroom cool and dark, stopping use of digital devices before bed, and keeping your bedroom dedicated to sleep can all help. You want to be getting enough sleep to feel rested. If you aren't getting enough or good quality sleep, your health care provider will have some suggestions that may help.Find and use relaxation techniques that work for you
Meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and being in nature can all help ease anxiety.Learn about your anxiety
Get educated! Learn about what can cause anxiety, what can help, and what treatments are available. Involve your family and friends wherever you can, and don’t be afraid to ask for their support.Stick to your treatment plan
If your doctor has prescribed medications, take them as directed. Keep therapy appointments and apply the suggestions your therapist gives you. Consistency can make a big difference to regaining control of your anxiety.Identify your triggers
Anxiety triggers are different for everybody. Learn what situations or actions increase your anxiety. Use the tools and strategies you develop with your mental health provider so you're more ready to deal with anxious feelings when they crop upKeep a journal
A journal can be a powerful tool in helping you express and articulate your anxiety and other emotions. This doesn’t have to be a daily account of what happened that day and how you felt/feel about it; it can be as simple as jotting down a list of emotions you feel in the moment, then taking a moment to acknowledge them and ask why they’re there.Socialize
Even though being with other people may be the last thing you want to do, even a small amount of socializing can help with anxiety. Don’t allow your anxiety to isolate you from loved ones or activities you enjoy
Anxiety can be challenging to live with and manage, but there ARE tools and support available to help you.
If you live in the Salt Lake Valley, Orem, Lehi, Provo, or American Fork, it’s worth considering getting expert help from Inside Wellness Counseling. Schedule a call with our Care Coordinator today to get matched with the best therapist for you.