If you’ve ever experienced the rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and muscle tension associated with an anxiety attack, you know you never want to suffer through that again. Recurrent anxiety can be debilitating, but there are things you can do to take the pressure off of yourself each day so that you reduce your chances of another episode. Want to know more? Read on.
Expend pent up energy
For many of us, anxiety attacks come on when we have to sit still and have zero outlet for our internal energy. This is the perfect time to turn to PILPOC fidget toys, which may be able to help you keep your focus on whatever task is at hand. You’ll release energy and have a soothing activity that may help keep you calm.
Change jobs
Workplace tension, watercooler talk, and the threat of layoffs coupled with unreasonable deadlines and unrealized raises can all make work a significant source of anxiety. Changing your job to something more suited to your personality and interests may help. Consider IT and tech support services, graphic design, personal assisting, or photography, all of which are great options that you can freelance on your own schedule.
Start a business
If flexibility and freedom would help reset your mindset, starting a business of your own might be your best bet. Think about what marketable skills you already have, or what product you believe in. Starting a new business as a sole proprietorship is easy these days, thanks to online services like Zenbusiness. They can walk you through every step, from choosing your business name to establishing a budget and creating a website. If you think you might expand someday by taking on a partner or enlisting investors, an LLC might be a better choice. Weigh your options and the many benefits — and drawbacks — of running your own show before you dive in.
Quit caffeine
Okay, so the thought of leaving coffee behind completely might give you anxiety in itself. But, considering that caffeine is widely known to induce anxiety, it may be best to cut back your consumption to no more than two cups per day.
Grab a pen
Journaling isn’t just for fifth-grade girls. Studies show that writing in a journal can actually lessen the effects of trauma on the human brain. It also has plenty of benefits for the immune system and helps you confront your emotions in a healthy, safe, and positive environment.
Indulge in aromatherapy
If a lack of sleep is giving you anxiety, put some lavender on your pillow to promote healthy overnight hours. Lavender oil promotes relaxation so you can get the sleep you need to face each day.
Affirm yourself
Anxiety is often a side-effect of feeling powerless. But, you can use positive affirmations each day to improve your quality of life, boost your confidence, and set yourself up for success. Remind yourself that you are strong, smart, and capable every morning.
Exercise
Exercise is known to trigger the release of endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals in the brain. And, the benefits of walking, running, or working out can be felt long after your heart rate goes down. Exercise at least 120 minutes each week. Grab a friend and go for a walk for the added benefit of socialization.
Stop social media
While in-person socialization with your closest friends is crucial for your mental health, social media is not. According to research, which the BBC outlined in a recent article, heavy social media usage is linked to poor well-being and negative self-esteem.
Eat healthy meals
Cupcakes, candies, and ice cream can all make you feel really good, but this is only a temporary culinary euphoria. Unfortunately, all of these foods contain sugars, which are shown to reduce brain function. Eat This, Not That notes that a similar side-effect is associated with aspartame and other artificial sweeteners. The bottom line: eat healthy foods, and when you need a sweet treat, grab fruit instead.
Anxiety compounds over time and can render you helpless, afraid, and, after an anxiety attack, even more anxious than before. However, lifestyle changes, such as those listed above, can help you take control of your mental health. In doing so, you give yourself your best chance at living your best life and reducing the severity and frequency of negative mental health days.
And how do you feel? Are you stressed? Do you want to stop anxiety? You might want to browse PILPOC fidget toys here and give it a try.