As more responsibilities seem to pile on and expectations are raised, people over exhaust themselves in an attempt to accomplish the impossible. Factors that induce more stressors than normal can present themselves at once and cause your mind to kinda melt. As school begins, classes and assignments start to become grueling--a new challenge to be better than last year is added to your list of to-do's. In addition to managing classes, most college students also maintain a part-time job, adjusting to life away from home, and having an active social life. Honestly, while I do juggle all of these, I'll be the first to admit that I have anxiety-- not terrible but it's scary. In the end, I know I've worked through anxiety attacks before and I'm more than capable of conquering my fears.
While many people don't believe that anxiety necessarily exists, it actually affects a significant number of individuals. In addition, there are several types of anxiety that people can experience. Anxiety could either prove to occur chronically or it could be triggered by specific event changes in life, moving, or even school beginning. Regardless of the reason, anxiety is a disheartening feeling. There are knots in the pit of your stomach that just snatch away your appetite. So distracted by your worries and fears of self-doubt, it becomes hard to focus-- giving up on concentrating after several attempts to push your feelings aside. When morning arrives, that quick moment of bliss and serenity is washed away as reality sets in. However, you can't live your in the shadows of anxiety and allow your fears to determine the paths you've chosen in life.
Anxiety isn't a 24-hour fix, you have to consistently put effort into yourself in order to actually make a difference in your life. Many techniques have been shown to significantly reduces one's anxiety over time but also calm a panic attack quickly. I have experienced spurts of anxiety for awhile, so I dabbled in ideas and found several ways to relax and reduce stress.
Exercise, exercise, exercise! Often anxiety can be triggered by overwhelming stressors and you just have a sense of anxious energy. Working out at the gym, hiking the local trials, or even walking in your neighborhood can be therapeutic by releasing tensions.
Just breathe. Whether a tickle of anxiety is creeping up or you're just having a panic attack, concentrating on something and taking deep breathes forces your mind to draw its attention away from worrying. When anxiety strikes, I picture sandy beaches over looking turquoise waters and count to 10, telling myself inhale and exhale. Taking a minute to calm down- it can make a world of a difference.
Discover an outlet for your thoughts. While some choose to keep their anxiety in hiding from others, certain people like to confide in their fellow friends. Friends are a great comfort and often can empathize with your fears considering they're in a similar situation. In addition, finding an outlet can mean listening to music, writing in a journal, or even reading.
Find some inspiration. You need to find inspiration in something that brings comfort into your life. Those that have faith in God know that there are many Bible verses that give people experiencing anxiety, a sense of hope. Similarly, looking towards the future can create an incentive and a distraction from your fears. Look forward to the little pleasures that life offers and appreciate the moments of happiness.
Anxiety is a battle, but it is a battle that can be easily conquered by those who choose to muster the strength. Remember, the strongest warriors must face the toughest challenges.
