For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
Self Tests
Understand
- What is an anxiety disorder?
- Anxiety Causes
- Controlling Anxiety
- Anxiety Medication
- Physical Symptoms
Types Of Anxiety
- Panic Disorder
- Agoraphobia
- Specific Phobias
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Hi Mikey2189, I can't
Hi Mikey2189,
I can't give you medical advice, but there are several things you can do to manage anxiety and help alleviate the symptoms.
These include:
Deep breathing exercises - if you are feeling anxious, take a few moments and just focus on breathing very deeply, using your diaphragm. Most people breathe improperly (in a shallow manner), so start paying attention to your breathing.
Meditation - this doesn't have to be a formal ritual. Rather, just spend a few minutes each day in a quiet place, sitting in a relaxed, comfortable position. Close your eyes and allow yourself to not think about anything (this takes a little practice, as most of us have a lot of "chatter" going on in our minds). One of the best ways to do this is to focus on your breathing. People who practice meditation regularly often swear by its calming effects.
Exercise regularly (with your doctor's okay)- regular aerobic exercise (such as jogging, brisk walking, swimming, etc) helps to reduce symptoms of anxiety.
Learn what is triggering your anxiety - anxiety is often rooted in people's thought patterns and beliefs, which is why cognitive behavioral therapy works very well for people with anxiety. You may want to schedule an appointment with a mental health professional, who can help you change unhealthy / irrational thoughts and beliefs that are may be the underlying cause of your anxiety.