To People struggling with Anxiety:

You are not alone. In fact 3.3 million American adults are struggling with some form of Anxiety. I am one of these adults. I have been struggling with Anxiety and Depression for a while. I haven’t told most people in fear of being ridiculed. I’m terrified people will mock me, and tell me that anxiety isn’t a real thing. That I am making it up for attention. To the people who do mock others with mental health issues, just know that it is not made up. I don’t sit in my bed in tears for no reason just because I want attention. I do not have panic attacks just to be the focus of someone’s conversation. I can’t help when I lie under my covers for hours and over think situations, or conversations that should be easy. I know I make them so much more difficult than what they have to be, but I can't help it. It isn’t easy to live with, and I know it isn’t easy for the people close in my life. Like many others, I have to live with my anxiety, and handle it day by day. Here are some things that have helped me, and maybe they’ll help you.

1. Take a Break

If you are in a situation, or doing something that is making you feel anxious, try to stop if you can. Just take a break until you think you are ready to continue. Take a step back from the situation and just take slow, deep breathes. Count to ten while you’re breathing, count to twenty if you have to.

2. Do One Relaxing Thing a day

I personally love yoga. For me yoga is a great way to end the day. I am a follower of God so diving into scripture, and reading devotionals help me to unwind after a stressful day. Writing also helps me calm down when I am feeling overwhelmed. Meditate, run, take a bath, or do a coloring book. Whatever relaxes you, try and do it as much as you can.

3. Try to Lay off Caffeine

Studies have shown that high amounts of caffeine help trigger anxiety and panic attacks. Consuming alcohol can also trigger for panic attacks. Drink water, stay hydrated!

4. Get enough Sleep

You need to sleep, especially when you are feeling stressed. Your body needs even more sleep when you are going through eventful days. I know that it can be hard to sleep, especially when you can’t stop thinking about a certain situation. Just lay in the dark, and close your eyes. Take slow, deep breaths, and try to slowly fall asleep. Put down your electronics before bed, it helps!

5. Repeat a Positive Moto

You can either repeat phrases like, "I'm okay." "You're Beautiful." "I am happy." For me personally, I try to repeat Bible verses over and over again when I am feeling really anxious. Recently a few verses that have helped me through rough times include: Psalm 46:5, Psalm 61:2, and Isaiah 40:31. I know it can be really hard to tell yourself something positive, especially on really tough days. The more you try to put positive thoughts into your head, the easier it gets to manage your anxiety.

6. Find an Animal to Love on

One thing that always makes me forget about my troubles is playing with dogs. If you have a dog, or cat, or any other kind of animal, play with it when you're feeling anxious. I personally walk around my college campus looking for dogs sometimes. It's so relaxing to pet a four legged friend. Even if it takes your mind of your stress for a moment, it really can make a huge difference in your mood. Just ask someone before you pet their animal!

7. Learn what Triggers your Anxiety

I figured out what triggered my anxiety by keeping a journal. I wrote down what was causing me to feel anxious, and over time was able to pinpoint it down to two things. I don’t like being in situations where I cannot leave. It’s hard for me to ride planes, I’ve done a three hour flight, and that’s the longest I want to do. I hated teachers who wouldn’t let me go to the bathroom in class, just situations where I can’t leave freak me out. Situations I can’t control cause more of my panic attacks. My last panic attack was caused by a school not having my transcript I sent them. I had been waiting a month to get in, and they never told me they didn’t get my transcript. It’s really hard for me not to have control over situations.

8. Talk to a friend

The first person I really opened up to about anything is my boyfriend. He always listened, and said what he honestly thought. Having support from close people in your life is honestly great, you can let them know you are overwhelmed, and let them know what they can do to help. I’ve opened up to another really close friend, and having their support means the world to me.

9. Find a Therapist

I am still working on this one actually. I am hesitant to go to therapy, but I think it is something I should do, and others should do. If you struggle figuring out what causes your panic attacks, therapy is a good option. You can get to the root of your problems with therapy, and maybe learn how to turn a negative mind set into a positive one. I'm still looking more into therapy before I make the jump into scheduling an appointment, and I advise you to do the same. Research therapist in your area, and maybe the first one you go to isn't the right one for you, don't give up on the first one!

10. Make some Crafts

Pull out your pinterest board and see what DIY pins you saved! DIY projects can definitely take your mind off of stress in your life. Maybe you bake a cake recipe you saved, or build a storage unit that is really cute for your house. I personally think crafts take your mind off whatever is going on. Crafts channel your focus, and help to ease your mind off of anxious thoughts.

These little things have really helped me manage my Anxiety and Depression. I have been praying everyday for God to help me get through my Anxiety, and help me conquer it. One verse that has comforted me for a long time is Proverbs 3:5-6. This verse has been a part of my life for years, and has helped me remain faithful to God through everything I’ve endured. Comment if there is anything you do that helps your anxiety I didn’t list. Maybe it could help me and others!