How to overcome anxiety – 5 simple steps
Do you have an anxiety disorder? If so, you’re not alone—in fact, anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health issues in the United States, affecting about 40 million adults every year. The symptoms of anxiety can include physical symptoms like nausea and upset stomach, as well as severe psychological effects like obsessive thoughts and panic attacks. Luckily, there are things you can do to overcome your anxiety and lead a happier life! Here are five simple steps to help you get started on your journey to overcoming anxiety.
1) Think Positive
The easiest way to overcome anxiety is by forcing yourself to think positive. You might feel anxious when you’re around people you don’t know, but if you force yourself to think about how nice everyone is and what a good time you are going to have, it can help alleviate those feelings. If that doesn’t work, try writing down your worries and erasing them. This gives your mind something more concrete on which to focus, as opposed to dwelling on worries.
2) Talk About Your Fears
I remember when I started getting debilitating panic attacks and anxiety. At first, it was just a fear of flying (even though I’d done it hundreds of times). Then, my fear snowballed. My mind would play tricks on me and convince me that everything was going to fall apart. If you’re struggling with anxiety—whether it be acute or chronic—the best thing you can do is confront your fears head-on.
3) Look at Past Accomplishments
If you’re trying to overcome anxiety, it can be helpful (and motivating) to look back at your life and see how far you’ve come. Start by creating a list of past accomplishments (academic achievements, job promotions, volunteer positions, extracurricular activities). This list will help remind you of how powerful you are.
4) Practice Meditation
Meditation is a simple practice that can help those with anxiety overcome their symptoms. Find a quiet space and take five or ten minutes out of your day to focus on your breathing; breathe in deeply for four seconds, then exhale for eight seconds. You’ll find yourself less anxious and more focused.
5) Keep a Journal
Keeping a journal can help you fight anxiety by forcing you to deal with your anxieties head-on. It’s hard to feel anxious when there’s no place left in your mind for those anxious thoughts. That is, unless they start writing themselves in your diary! But it’s best not to let them get that far—write down everything from what caused your anxiety, how it makes you feel, and any reactions you have or steps you can take next time it happens. This way, you don’t just learn how to overcome anxiety; you also gain valuable insight into how your mind works.
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