You might be surprised to learn that anxiety is the most common mental illness in the United States. It affects nearly 40 million Americans. Even so, many people don’t know how to manage their anxiety. Maybe you feel anxious about your job, or you’re worried about college admissions or your upcoming trip abroad. In any case, you need to learn more about dealing with your anxious feelings. Here are five simple but effective ways to manage anxiety.
Talk to Your Doctor
Talk to your doctor if you think anxiety affects your daily life, especially if your anxiety is extreme or causing you to avoid social situations. Your doctor can refer you to a mental health professional specializing in treating anxiety. Your doctor can also recommend medications that may help you manage your anxiety. However, some people do better on one medication compared to another. But don’t hesitate to try non-pharmacological measures such as self-help books and breathing exercises before turning to medications.
Exercise is Good for Your Mental Health
Regular exercise can help you manage anxiety by reducing stress. When you’re under stress, your body releases cortisol, a stress hormone. Exercise also releases endorphins, chemicals in your brain that make you feel good. Exercising releases the body’s supply of endorphins, reducing stress and reducing the need to take prescription medications. You can reap the best mental health benefits from exercise by getting regular cardiovascular exercise, such as walking. It’s also important to get movement through your arms and legs, so consider yoga or tai chi if you enjoy those activities.
Try Natural Remedies
There are many natural ways to manage anxiety. You can try herbs, supplements, and other alternative treatments. Talk to your doctor before you start taking any supplements, though. First, check whether you’re allergic to any of the ingredients. Then look at how long they take to show results and any side effects you might experience if you are using CBD or delta 10 products.
Try Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises can help you calm your nerves and focus your attention. Try taking a slow, relaxed breath through your mouth while counting to five. Then feel your breath leave your body as you silently say “out” to five and feel your breath come back in as you silently say “in” to five. Do this for about five minutes after you feel your anxiety rise. It can help you calm down and refocus your attention.
Improve Your Diet
Eating a healthy diet can help you feel better if you have anxiety. A diet high in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and fish can reduce your anxiety. A diet low in simple sugars, fats, sodium, and calories can help you feel less stressed. If you have a lot of anxiety, you might try cutting out or delaying your intake of certain foods. If you often eat or drink something high in sugar, try cutting it out or limiting yourself to one serving a day. If you’re not sure what might be contributing to your anxiety, you can try a “stress diet.” Eat foods high in nutrients that don’t contribute to your stress. For example, drink water, eat healthy snacks and avoid junk snacks.