If you have anxiety, you know how difficult it can be to make it through your day when you feel like you are in a constant state of panic. Although anxiety can keep you on alert during intense or high-stakes situations, its presence can also make it hard to relax, focus, and enjoy life.
Although anxiety often requires professional treatment, there are things you can do to manage the symptoms of this mental illness on your own:
- Practice deep, focused breathing—When feelings of anxiety start to overwhelm you, sit down and focus on your breathing. Try to breathe in for four counts and then breathe out again for four counts. Do this for five minutes, and you will slow your heart rate down, which can help with decreasing your anxiety.
- Question your thought patterns—Nervous thoughts about what is happening or what might happen in the future may not be rooted in reality. Ask yourself if the fears running through your head are actually true and determine where you can take back control.
- Write down your thoughts—Writing down your thoughts can get them out of your head and clear away what’s making you anxious. This technique is particularly helpful for those who do not experience anxiety constantly but on a sporadic basis.
If you are having a hard time managing your anxiety, even with self-help techniques, and it has started to interfere with your daily life. Dr. James Campbell can help. Contact the office of Dr. James Campbell, LLC today to set up an appointment.