It's easy to lose yourself in all that's been happening in the world these past few weeks. The media has nearly exploded with stories. And while all these events are incredibly important and I'm so grateful to see them being covered and talked about, for people like myself – with anxiety or anxious tendencies – these events become more than overwhelming.

Although we must challenge ourselves to address the problems that are going on in our world and take action against them, we cannot forget ourselves in the midst of this. It needs to be acknowledged that sometimes the stress is too much. I personally understand this. So I put together five ways one can combat their anxiety in these pressing times.

1. Realize that it's okay to take time for yourself.

I often find that it is not so much the matter of calming me down or relieving my anxiety that is difficult, but rather just accepting that I need to take care of myself. It's a necessary realization because no matter what is happening in that moment, you are still important. Tell yourself this. Say it out loud: "I care about these problems, but I care about myself too." Taking time for yourself does not make you heartless.

2. Find a place in which you are comfortable, and take some moments to just breathe.

Okay, I know this one seems very cliche, but I've found putting myself in a safe place and focusing on the rhythm of my breath is the most effective means of calming myself down. If you find yourself starting to feel panicked or anxious and don't feel safe in the current environment, do what you can to alter that environment. It's astonishing how much a change in setting can bring a sense of instantaneous relief.

(I've seen this gif all over tumblr and it's great to follow your breaths with!)

3. Purchase a journal and write down what first comes to your mind.

Keeping a journal is always recommended for people dealing with depression or anxiety, but I can assure you that it really does help. Treat your journal like a template for your thoughts – place your stream of consciousness down on paper. Whether it be full sentences or just words, writing down what you're feeling, and seeing it right there in front of you, can be sincerely comforting. It's a way of organizing your feelings and reassuring yourself that these feelings are real.

4. Put together a playlist of music that settles you down and/or lifts your spirits.

Here comes the organization thing again. In my experience, both creating the playlist and listening to it is beneficial. Music has always been an incredible source of solace for me with my anxiety, and I wholeheartedly believe it has the ability to do this for everyone else. With this playlist, your comfort will be in reach, just a simple press "play" could make all the difference.

5. Choose a trusted person (maybe more than one), that you can go to during these situations.

While I don't suggest bearing the weight of your worries completely on someone else, having another person there to listen can be encouraging. This person will let you know that whatever you're feeling is valid, however, "irrational" it may be. At times, I wish to be alone when my anxiety is heightened, but at times I need consoling. We all do.

I hope that these tips can help anyone out there who is struggling as much as I am with current events. As I mentioned before, although it's extremely important to be aware of and talk about issues, it's also perfectly okay to step back when you need to. Don't forget that your physical and mental health is a priority.