Anxiety is something everyone has to deal with at some point in time.

To start with don't think lesser of yourself for having to take time to care for yourself, instead focus on getting better. Saying is easier than doing though, but keep in mind what you would say to a friend who struggles with anxiety. It's what they would want for you so why shouldn't you treat yourself with the same amount of kindness.

No matter the form your personal brand of mental stagnation takes there are ways to combat it. These all can

1. First off, breathe

Literally, though, breathing exercises have a wide range. To elaborate, there's mindful breathing which includes meditation and engaging four of your five senses. You'll start off with a ground technique running through a list of the environment around you. Five things you can see, four things you can hear, three things you can feel, two things you can smell, and one thing you love. Doing this while not experiencing anxiety can balance out your mood but also allow you to remember when you're in a panic. Counting stable breaths can be used when you're already having an attack.

2. Kick everyone out

Isolation can be necessary to keep you from holding everything in. Notifying friends about the possibility of anxiety occurring and giving them information to help you only benefits all of you. Although, if you have calmed down enough and feel as though it may positively benefit your mental health, then reaching out to someone you trust after is completely chill and encouraged.

3. Really take some time to yourself

I am guilty of not letting myself have a moment of peace after having an anxiety or panic attack which is the exact opposite of what you should do. It doesn't have to be something big, but there has to something or you won't fully recover. If you still aren't properly grounded, having a hot drink, such as tea, is a great idea. If you want to snack, I'd recommend something semi-healthy if you struggle with body image issues so you won't rag on yourself after. Simply reading or watching a movie can take your mind off of it.

4. Reach out to your support network

If you still don't want them around that's fine too, but hearing from them may also assist you in anchoring yourself into the present. They can help distract you with conversation or they can help you work through the issue causing anxiety. Be mindful of who you pick. Don't base it off of what someone else wants, base it off of what you need. If someone isn't available it doesn't mean you aren't cared about they may just not be aware of the situation or they may have previous obligations. Just remember that even if you don't reach out to others you are still cared about.

5. Start moving forward

Beforehand check back in with yourself emotionally then simply make a list. Don't do anything else, plan out your obligations in order of what needs to be done immediately to what can you take a day from. Even if you don't want to take a full break from them don't hold yourself to such high standards to where you'll crash and burn. If you have no motivation to start, you can lower the bar to just starting it and see how far you get from there.