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 Pumpkindoodohead, College
Hi Pumpkindoodohead,
College is an especially stressful time for many people, although it sounds like your anxiety may have started a little before college.
I personally would never recommend medication alone for the treatment of general anxiety disorder or panic attacks. While it may help the symptoms, it doesn't treat the underlying issues. In most cases, the symptoms return once the medication is discontinued.
Have you had any psychotherapy (talk therapy) for your anxiety? A skilled therapist can help you address the underlying issues that are causing the anxiety. He or she can also help you make changes in your thinking that may be fueling the anxiety, and also teach you ways to cope with, manage, and reduce symptoms.
As for relaxation techniques - I would start with practicing deep breathing. Most people don't breathe deeply enough. And when people are anxious, their breathing tends to become quite shallow. The moment you start to feel anxious, take several slow, deep breaths. This should help you feel a little calmer.
Other relaxation techniques for anxiety include progressive relaxation and guided imagery. These take practice, but can be very effective. Here is a nice video that walks you through progressive relaxation. Once you understand it, you can do it on your own. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFwCKKa--18&feature=related
Other things that will help your anxiety are regular aerobic exercise (such as running, brisk walking, swimming laps, biking), meditation, and yoga.
I hope this helps and I wish you the best!