Anxiety itself is a normal feeling. We all get anxious about some things, whether that’s a special event coming up, a test, a speech, a first date, we’ve all experienced it at some point. However, prolonged anxiety can manifest itself in a number of different ways, and can really take a toll on the body. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms for a prolonged period of time or often, you may want to take time to self reflect and understand what is causing you anxiety and how to combat it.
- Feeling disconnected from the world.
- Overthinking.
- Headaches.
- Tenseness.
- Increased heart rate.
- Hyperventilation.
- Shortness of breath.
- Loss of appetite.
- Nausea.
- Avoidance (of people, of activities, etc.)
- Not being able to sleep.
- Wanting constant reassurance.
- Sweating.
- Worrying about future events.
- Excessive worrying.
- Restlessness.
- Panic attacks.
- Second guessing.
- Tight feeling in chest.
- Uncontrollable worries.
- Depersonalization.
- Lightheadedness.
- Trembling.
- Worrying about past events.
- Disqualifying the positive.
- Stomach cramps.
- All or nothing thinking.
- Not being able to relax.
- Thinking “what if”.
- Catastrophizing.
- Irritability.
- Muscle Tension.
Now, if you are feeling this way, it is more than okay to ask for help. Turning to someone you trust in a time of need is a very important step in self care. However, if you’re looking for ways to combat anxiety when it arises on your own, here are 32 ways to do that:
- Blow some bubbles.
- Make a to-do list.
- Go for a walk.
- Refocus your attention.
- Tidy up.
- Acknowledge your feelings.
- Pet a furry friend.
- Remind yourself that you’ve been here before.
- Channel your breathing.
- Tell yourself that you’re safe.
- Solve a puzzle.
- Be kind to yourself.
- Doodle in a notebook.
- Take care of your physical needs.
- Lie on your stomach.
- Give yourself a hug.
- Focus on your safe space.
- Drink a glass of water.
- Go for a run.
- Try guided meditation.
- Find a soothing scent.
- Read a book.
- Listen to music.
- Go outside.
- Call a friend.
- Get some exercise.
- Learn to knit.
- Find a therapist.
- Do a craft.
- Talk to your doctor about medication.
- Play with Play Doh.
- Solve a math problem.
Source: https://www.buzzfeed.com/carolynkylstra/anxiety-tips?utm_term=.oiE32W8qg#.ofj9gwaG2