In America, approximately 3.3 million adults are diagnosed with anxiety. This number doesn't include teenagers under 18 years of age, who have also been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

Despite this, the mental illness taboo often keeps those who struggle, in the shadows. Because of this obstacle, it can be difficult to find coping strategies that work for everyone. What works for one person doesn't always work for another.

With the help of a few other college students who also struggle with anxiety, I've compiled a list of ways to cope with it. When you're feeling close to an anxiety or panic attack, try one of the following coping mechanisms:

1. Cook something delicious or new.

2. Take a bubble bath (maybe even with a glass of wine).

3. Color.

4. Paint your toes or fingernails.

5. Give yourself a facial.

6. Watch your favorite comedy T.V. series.

7. Draw.

8. Paint

.9. Any other arts or crafts.

10. Clean or organize a room in your house or apartment.

11. Call your mom.

12. Call your sister.

13. Go on a run or do some yoga.

14. Get exercise in general.

15. Take a nap.

16. Take a cold shower.

17. Go on a drive with your favorite music.

18. Give your pet some attention (you'll be surprised at how much comfort they'll bring you).

19. Hug someone you love.

20. When you think you're ready to pull away, hug them for a little longer (I promise they won't mind).

21. Eat a piece of chocolate.

22. Write a letter to your grandmother.

23. Be productive. Do something you've been putting off.

24. Do your make-up (even if you have nowhere to go).

25. Go to a shooting range.

26. Play an instrument.

27. Or learn how to play a new one.

28. Turn on music, and sing and dance your troubles away.

29. Read your Bible.

30. Read a book.

31. Take a walk.

32. Pray.

When nothing else is working, just close your eyes and breathe – in through your nose and out through your mouth. One breath at a time.

Repeat as long as you need; until you feel your chest and body relax.

Learning how to cope with your anxiety and what works for you is one of the hardest parts of the struggle. Some of these things may work for you and maybe none of them will at all. Everyone's struggle is different and finding what works for you is very important.

How do you cope with your anxiety?