I’ve struggled with anxiety since before I even knew what anxiety was. I remember being so nervous, the feeling of an elephant on my chest and heavy breathing in the doctors office when I was super young. The doctor asked me “why are you so nervous?” and I had no idea how to answer him. When asked why I have anxiety even to this day I still have no answer and that’s because with actual anxiety disorder it is many times subconscious. That’s what makes dealing with this illness so difficult, is that you can never quite pinpoint where the issue is coming from in order to try and fix it. I’ve had my ups and downs throughout my whole life. Some years I thought I finally beat my anxiety and it was gone forever, other years it was so intense I could barley get out of bed or eat a full meal. I wouldn’t wish this on anyone in the entire world but I also know that I will probably deal with it for my whole life, because that’s just how it’s always been. I’ve learned that all I can do is try and find a way to live with it, but better yet to find ways to reduce it and calm myself. I’m no expert but here are some ways in which truly helped me reduce my stress and anxiety.
- Find something to take your mind off of your worries
This could be different for everyone whether it be the music you listen to, a book you read, working out, it doesn’t matter as long as it takes your mind away from all that you’re thinking about and calms you. Lately I’ve learned that the number one way in which I can calm myself sand go to a different world per-say is reading. Getting lost in the pages of a book completely takes my mind off of all of my worries and I’ve been reading now more than ever.So try and find something that works for you and I promise it will make a world of difference.
2. Try and realize that it’s never as big as it seems
Yes, it may seem like the end of the world at the moment but if you really start to think about it, whatever you’re worrying about deep down is never as big of a worrisome matter as it seems. Think of all of the good things in your life and what you’re grateful for and try not to dwell on the negative. Easier said than done, I realize that but if you can, really try and focus on the good instead of letting your mind wander.
3. Talk to someone who understands what you’re going through
This could be anyone who is willing to listen and be sympathetic but the best thing you can do is find someone who deals with anxiety disorder too (by the way there is a big difference between anxiety and anxiety disorder but that’s a topic for another day.) Trust me there are plenty out there who deal with it and will be willing to talk to you. If you can’t find someone there is no shame in counseling and that should never be something to feel embarrassed about.
I hope this helps anyone who is struggling with anxiety or who has struggled with it in the past. If you ever want to talk my DMs are always open.
xoxo,
Selah
