Ten Ways to Cope with Anxiety

Anyone with an anxiety disorder can tell you that even though it's difficult, it isn't impossible to handle one's anxiety, especially for those whose anxieties are so severe that they must seek psychiatric treatment. Even those who are just worriers and don't need to seek medical attention for their anxiety have found that there are certain techniques one can use to help quell those nervous thoughts. There are ten ways to fight back against anxiety that don't require medication or doctors.

10. Exercise

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to stop anxiety. Not only is it good for your body in general, the extra blood and oxygen flow to your brain helps to relax those with nervous thinking. Even if you aren't an anxious person, you really should exercise!

9. Eating right

Consuming too much caffeine and sugar can make just about anyone anxious. It can increase your heart rate, among other physiological effects, and make you more anxious than you were to begin with. Eat a balanced diet and avoid large amounts of caffeine.

8. Journaling

Journaling is a great way to release stress daily. By putting things down in words, you are releasing them onto the pages rather than keeping them pent up inside. Less stress naturally equals less anxiety.

7. Yoga

Need I say more? This popular form of exercise is both soothing and calming. I highly recommend it!

6. Pets

Pets are known to lower blood pressure and keep their owners calmer than people who don't own pets. They're also fun to talk to when you are anxious because they can't make judgments about your thoughts even if you are being irrational! They will sit there, listen, and hope they get a treat eventually.

5. Deep Breathing

This one of the most important methods for relieving anxiety. Often those suffering from anxiety tend to hyperventilate. By taking slow, deep breaths you can prevent hyperventilation and help the body get more oxygen to the brain. Oxygen will calm the body and mind.

4. Lists

Putting down your worries in a list can help you to identify which ones are legitimate and which are toxic, anxiety-causing worries. Try crossing out those that you have no control over to eliminate those toxic worries.

3. Talking

Talk to someone! It's as easy as that. Tell someone you trust, like a close friend, family member, or therapist, all about what's troubling you. Letting it out will ease the mind and the soul.

2. Meditation

Meditation is a difficult practice to get into, especially for those of us with overactive worries, but once you make it a habit you'll find it to be a great way to ease the nerves and keep your anxiety under control.

1. HUGS!

Giving and receiving hugs is not only a good way to show someone you care, but as social creatures we need contact with others. It's a natural thing we crave. Physical contact releases those feel-good endorphins that we all need once in a while. Sometimes the best way to stop those anxious thoughts is to go to a close friend or family member and say, "I'm not feeling well. Could I have a hug?" They'll certainly oblige because hugs probably make them feel better too!!