For those of you experiencing chronic anxiety or know someone who is you understand that panic attacks are scary. Most people shut down during situations like that but hopefully this list will give you some ideas to help you or a friend in high-stress situations.
1. Make a playlist of calming songs.
It can consist of your favorite songs, songs you have happy memories associated with or songs that you find relaxing in general. Putting in headphones and turning your music up really loud is an easy way to distance yourself from whatever you are feeling anxious about.
2. Physically separate yourself from the stressful situation.
Whether you are sitting at your desk doing homework, in a room full of people, or somewhere that is overwhelmingly loud, get up and leave for a little bit. Escaping outdoors, to the bathroom or some place where there are little to no people is best to focus and take slow, solid breaths. If you have a friend that appears to be getting anxious invite them to leave the stressful situation.
3. Call someone who can always makes you feel better.
Call your parents, best friend, anyone who you trust and have a normal conversation with them. Allow your mind to wander away from whatever you are freaking out about.
4. Try your best to talk your friend down from their panic attack.
Become a positive force for a few minutes by helping your friend out of their negative mindset. Tell them it's going to be okay. You know your friend so try telling them what they want to hear or what they need to hear even if it's harsh. Just be someone they can lean on.
5. Bring an ally when you go out.
Bring a friend who is familiar with your anxiety and knows what triggers it when you go out. They will be an extra set of senses to help you avoid anything that may set you off.
6. Get some sleep.
This doesn't seem like the most productive thing to do but I am a firm believer that sleep is the best medicine.Turn off your lights, curl up in bed and take a nap. You will feel better when you wake up.
7. Express yourself.
Writing down how you feel, drawing, painting any creative process will help you. Put how you feel into the physical world, look at it and release it from your head.
8. Watch your favorite movie.
Pop in a DVD, stream something on Netflix and submerge yourself into a fictional world where all of life's problems are irrelevant.
9. Have a snack.
Go into the kitchen and rummage through the fridge or pick up the phone and order some food. Eating something delicious will fill your stomach and make you feel better.
Try doing these things for yourself or for someone you know that is going through anxiety. They may be your saving grace but you won't know until you test them out. Anxiety is normal and we all have our own ways of working through it so if these don't work for you, it's okay, you will find your own way.
