Facing Your Anxiety
The most common mental disorder in America is anxiety. The ADAA states that up to 40 million adults in the U.S. suffer from anxiety disorders, and the worst part is that a high number of those suffering either don’t know how to deal with it or never seek the help that they need. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with some tips to facing your anxiety and live the life that you deserve. If you are currently in need of help, contact Wendy Iglehart today for counseling in Cockeysville.
Breathe
As anyone who suffers from anxiety knows, when your fears begin to take hold, it can be nearly impossible to focus on anything other than what is causing your anxiety. Next time your anxious thoughts begin to take hold, give yourself a time out. Anxiety loses its grip when you take the time to clear your mind. Get in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and take deep breaths. This will help you relax and be mindful of the present. It also gives you time to think about if your fears are actually justified, since more often than not, your fears are only in your head.
Realize That You’re Not Alone
When suffering from anxiety, it can feel like you are all alone in the world, which makes the condition even worse. But the fact of the matter is that it’s likely that someone around you is also going through the same thing. Remind yourself that anxiety is a normal emotion and that it’s completely okay to be an anxious person.
Don’t Avoid Situations
Avoidance is a huge problem for those with anxiety, and the active attempt to avoid any situations that you think may cause anxiety only makes matters worse. Most of the situations that you believe might be a threat end up not being scary and even enjoyable. You never know until you go! Try your best to be adventurous and to not avoid every encounter that you think might make you nervous.
Engage in Relaxing Activities
One of the best things that you can do to ease your anxiety is to partake in an activity that you like and that relaxes you. Everyone is different but this could include:
- Listening to music
- Exercising
- Reading
- Taking your dog for a walk
- Meditating
- etc.
Another great option when you’re feeling anxious is to reach out to a family member or friend that you trust and can confide in. Sometimes just letting your feelings out helps immensely.
Seek Help
Of the 40 million adults suffering from anxiety, it’s estimated that only 36.9% actually seek and receive treatment. Just making the call can be a little bit of nerve-wracking, but if your anxiety is bad enough to affect your day to day activities, you’re going to want to seek help. Wendy Iglehart is a licensed psychotherapist and is ready to help you face your anxiety and free yourself from its control through anxiety therapy. Please do not hesitate to contact our office today to schedule an appointment for professional counseling in Cockeysville.
