21 Ways to Cope with Anxiety
There is no one way to deal with anxiety. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, anxiety is “a mental condition characterized by excessive apprehensiveness about real or perceived threats, typically leading to avoidance behaviors and often to physical symptoms such as increased heart rate and muscle tension.” With professional and some personal experience, I have learned that there is no one particular way to deal with anxiety. Tried and true coping skills do not always work, which is why it’s important to have a toolbox of different ways to manage when anxiety is high.
These are some techniques I often suggest:
Take 5-10 slow and deep breaths
Journal
Meditate
Take a shower
Go for a walk
Exercise or stretch
Listen to music
Talk to a supportive and trustworthy friend
Listen to calming nature sounds (rain, waves, forest, etc)
Take a nap, if possible
Remind yourself that you are safe
Try to identify if something is causing the anxiety
Question & reframe negative and/or illogical thoughts
Use aromatherapy
Paint, draw, or use a coloring book
Watch a funny movie or funny clips on YouTube
Explore a hobby (photography, dance, bird watching, video games, collecting crystals, etc)
Ensure that your diet includes fresh fruit & vegetables
Limit alcohol, caffeine, and smoking
Take a break from social media & news sources
Allow yourself to sit with and feel the feelings & emotions that come up
What are some of the things you do to manage anxiety?