Anxiety is common among people of all ages, and can be debilitating in their everyday life. Research shows that about half of all young adults struggle with symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Being anxious sometimes is normal, but if your anxiety rules your life, there are a few things you can do to keep it under control. Below are a few quick tips from a therapist in Tampa.
1. Practice Relaxation Techniques
If you struggle with adult anxiety, it’s helpful to keep relaxation techniques and coping mechanisms in your “anxiety toolbox.” When you feel anxious, you can use these techniques to soothe yourself without the help of anxiety medication (or in conjunction with it).
Some of these techniques include deep breathing, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness. By practicing any of these methods when you’re feeling anxious, you can reduce the stress you’re experiencing and calm your mind.
2. Move Your Body
Many people claim that exercise is the key to good mental health, and it’s often true. If you’re an anxious person, incorporating exercise into your life can make a big difference.
Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Endorphins can help you overcome anxiety, stave off depression, and even get better sleep at night.
Even just a brisk walk can have a positive impact on your mental health. Try to find a type of exercise that you enjoy. Whether it’s yoga, running, weightlifting, softball, swimming, or even dance, it can make a huge difference in your overall being.
3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Exercise isn’t the only healthy activity you should be participating in if you struggle with anxiety. You should try to revamp your entire lifestyle (to the best of your ability).
Pay attention to your diet and sleep patterns. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar, as they can exacerbate anxiety. Aim for a balanced diet and a consistent sleep schedule.
Alcohol and substance use can also worsen anxiety, so use them in moderation, or seek support to quit. Many people self-medicate with these things, but they do more harm than good in the long run.
4. Consider Professional Help
There’s no reason that you have to manage your anxiety on your own. You can reach out to a mental health professional who can help you take control of your anxiety through therapy sessions and/or anxiety medication.
Consider CBT, which is a proven therapy for managing anxiety. It helps you identify and change negative thought patterns, and a therapist can guide you through this process.
Not everyone needs anxiety medication, but it can make a big difference, especially when you’re experiencing acute anxiety.
See a Therapist in Tampa for Your Anxiety
It’s normal to feel anxious from time to time, but if your anxiety is taking over your life, it’s time to start seeking solutions. You deserve to feel calm and happy, and these tips may be able to help with that. Your anxiety doesn’t have to control you anymore.
Are you in need of a therapist in Tampa who can help you develop coping mechanisms and work through your anxiety? Interface Consulting and Psychological Services can help. Reach out to us to connect with one of our therapists today.