I am a firm believer that in my generation, every single one of us has either suffered through anxiety, or has been affected by some sort of anxiety like symptoms. Yeah, not all of us have been to a therapist and have been 'diagnosed' with this disorder, but every person has felt feelings of overwhelming stress or unease at some point in his or her life. To me, there is too much going on in young people's lives now-a-days for anxiety to not be a relevant topic. Whether it be anxiety because of school and grades, anxiety because of family, friends or the social aspects of our lives, or unease about stuff we don't even understand, anxiety can be one of the most difficult things to manage in a safe manner. People that have been 'diagnosed' with anxiety are usually prescribed some sort of medication to help when those feelings of anxiety just cannot be managed. Others, who just have the occasional 'attack' often struggle with ways to cope and handle anxiety. I am here to say that sometimes yes, medicine is 100% justifiable, trust me. But, I am also here to say that there are other methods to help lower your anxiety levels and hopefully stop the true attack before it even fully occurs.
Go for a run or walk outside. As much as we all probably hate the idea of doing any exercise, sometimes stepping outside, away from whatever is stressing you out, can truly be one of the best cures. The fresh air, loud music from your phone, and physical movement can help distract you and clear your head. That way, once you've finished your workout, you can come back with a clear head and handle the problem you're facing in a different manner than you would have otherwise.
Avoid caffeine. Trust me, I am 100 percent addicted to coffee, but whenever I feel anxious or worked up I know that turning to caffeine will only make it worse. When I have a lot get done school wise, I, like many of you, will drink tons and tons of coffee to help me get through the day and night. However, if your school work becomes the source of your anxiety, caffeine will only speed up your heart rate and increase your chances of having a panic attack. So instead of the caffeine, try water or one of your favorite drinks to help you get through your work.
Surround yourself with good company. When you feel like everything is out of your control and your life is spiraling, call your mom. Call your friends from home. Go over to one of your friend's houses at school. These are the people that have been there for you since day one and they will be the ones who help you get through your anxiety attack or help you take your mind off of it with a good laugh. It's amazing how much a simple laugh can help turn your attitude right back around.
So many people suffer or are affected by different symptoms of anxiety. Sometimes medicine is the only thing that can truly calm people down and bring them back to an eased state of mind. But sometimes, you can manage your anxiety on your own. The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone and everyone has felt what you are feeling at some point or another. Just breathe and you will get through it.
