As someone who has battled depression and anxiety for the past four years, I know how hard it can be. There are days where all I wanna do is stay in bed with little to no motivation to do anything else, but as a college student, life can't just stop even when you want it to. It's taken me years to learn how to cope with this debilitating disorder. I'm still learning how to live my life, instead of giving my disorder the power to live my life for me. These 8 coping mechanisms have really helped me when life hits me with a depressive episode or anxiety attack, and I hope that maybe they can help you too. Remember that there is no cure when it comes to depression or anxiety, a misconception I have struggled to understand myself. Instead, there are a variety of different techniques to help you tackle these problems head-on so that you can find happiness even when it feels like you can't!
1. Create a playlist
Music has been proven to be a rather helpful outlet. According to CNN, people who actively engage with music through dancing and attending events like concerts, reported a higher level of subjective well-being (CNN, 2017). I really love creating playlists for different occasions and moods. Whenever you're feeling anxious, put together a playlist of songs that help calm you down and whenever you're feeling a little sad, think about what songs get you moving. Whether or not you consider yourself to be a good dancer, getting lost in the music helps get you out of your head.
2. Take a break
I know it might be easier said than done, but I usually experience an anxiety attack when it feels like I have too much going on and no control over the situation. Set aside anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour for some much needed alone time. Take a nap, watch some Netflix, and come up with a game plan to help you tackle your to-do list in an efficient way. Try and remind yourself going forward that you're doing your best and celebrate even the smallest accomplishments that day.
3. Talk it out
For years I struggled to put my feelings into words when it came to my anxiety and depression. I often worried that people wouldn't understand and I hated feeling like I was getting pity over compassion. It isn't easy to admit it, but sometimes you just need someone to lean on because it's too hard to handle everything on your own. Whether you're prepared to share a little or a lot, reach out to a close friend or family member. Even if it's something as small as telling them that you need them, you're taking a step towards acceptance.
4. Exercise
I have always found it hard to feel motivated to work out, but when I do, I leave feeling accomplished and proud. Endorphins really do help improve your mood and working out gives you something to focus on rather than the issues causing your anxiety.
5. Find reasons to be grateful
Whenever I'm feeling anxious, I always like to make a list of five things I'm grateful for. Whether they are big or small, taking time to really focus on the people, places, and things that make you happy helps lessen the anxiety.
6. Laugh it out
I love watching funny movies or videos on YouTube to distract me. The goofier the better!
7. Make a mood board
Pinterest is a great outlet to collect inspirational quotes and pictures to help you think positively. Take some time to find a variety of quotes and images that speak to you and create a collage for your room.
8. Think happy thoughts
Have a go to mantra and consciously make a decision to say it when you're feeling anxious. Remind yourself that this too shall pass!
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