Dealing with anxiety isn't easy and can often feel overwhelming, but there are a lot of things that can help. Through the past year, I have learned a few things about how to cope with my own anxiety. Coping mechanisms are very personal, and there is a large amount of ways that you can help but your feelings at bay. Here are some of my ways of coping:
1. Do some deep breathing
One of the hardest things to do during an anxiety attack is to just breathe. Getting breathing under control is incredibly important, so it is a good idea to do some deep breathing exercises. You can find different exercises all over the internet, but Time has some great ones.
2. Listen to music
It's been proven that listening to music can reduce stress and calm you down. It is known to slow your pulse and lower blood pressure. Whenever I get anxious I immediately put on a stress relieving playlist. Here is a Spotify playlist of a few of my favorite calming songs.
3. Exercise
I have been told by countless doctors that exercising, even if just for a short time, can help lower my level of anxiety. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that help you feel better. It also distracts you from the anxiety by making you focus on your body or sport. The exercise doesn't have to be intense. It can be as simple as taking a walk around the block.
4. Color
Coloring is one of my favorite anxiety reducers. Much like with exercise, coloring distracts you. Adult coloring books are a huge trend right now, so you can find them pretty much anywhere. I love coloring because after you're done, you have a really pretty coloring. Having something nice come from my anxiety helps me cope with it.
5. Watch TV
As far as distractions go, TV is probably one of the best. If you find a good TV show, you can pretty much block everything else out. I would recommend staying away from the news in this situation. A light hearted comedy like "Friends" or "30 Rock" are my personal suggestions, but anything that distracts you is a good option.
6. Read
Reading a book is another wonderful distraction. During the school year, it's really hard to find time to read anything other than textbooks or required readings, but in the summer I highly recommend reading something you actually want to. If you don't have the time to commit to a book, try reading a few online articles. You can find an article about pretty much anything you're interested in on Odyssey.
7. Write yourself notes
My least favorite part of my anxiety is when I can't sleep at night because I have a bunch going on in my head. The only thing that seems to help is writing stuff down. Keep a notepad and pencil close by at all times. Writing little to-do lists or reminder notes makes me feel a whole lot better. It takes away the anxiety that I will forget what I'm thinking about.
8. Talk to someone
We are blessed to be part of a generation where everyone is just a phone call or text message away. If you feel yourself getting really worked up, reach out to a friend. Even if you don't want to talk about how you're feeling, talking can cheer you up and hopefully distract you. I have quite a few friends who also struggle with anxiety and talking to someone who understands can also be beneficial. It reminds me that I'm not alone and the way I'm feeling is okay.
9. Tackle whatever is making you anxious
Sometimes anxiety is completely irrational and you can't explain why you feel the way you do, but if you can think of anything that could possibly be making you anxious, it is important to try and work through it. This week I've been really anxious because I'm going on vacation and then I have to go back to school shortly after. I spent Sunday sorting through my college supplies and writing down what I still need, as well as making a list of everything I need to pack this week. After doing that, I feel quite a lot better. Even just giving yourself a few minutes to mentally form a plan can be helpful.
