It comes as no surprise that most of us experience some anxiety from time to time. Having a mild case of anxiety usually means that you are less likely to fear the symptoms of anxiety in the way that those with severe anxiety do. You recognize the symptoms of your attack and the episode may pass more quickly allowing you to function and carry on with your day.
You may be able to control mild anxiety with simple lifestyle changes. Consider the following tips from the calm clinic.com:
• Exercise regularly – Exercise is a powerful and important mental health tool. It releases endorphins which calm your entire body. It uses up adrenaline that is released when you are anxious and potentially burns away stress hormones. It tires out muscles to reduce your anxiety symptoms, and it reduces general physical stress, which studies have shown can decrease mental stress as well. Exercise is the most important thing you can do for your mild anxiety.
• Regulate sleep and diet – General healthy living is very important. Remember that real science has proven that a stressed body can actually create worries and negative thoughts. Your mind and body are linked in a very real way. Getting enough sleep and eating healthier can reduce physical and mental stress, and can make coping with anxiety much easier.
• Learn relaxation strategies – Counseling can still be very beneficial for those with mild anxiety. But for those that are hoping to avoid therapy, basic relaxation strategies may be enough. Try deep breathing, visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation to start. Make sure you commit to them for at minimum two months. Contrary to popular belief, relaxation exercises do not work right away. They only work when you become used to doing them without overthinking the behaviours.
• Join a support group – Joining a group for people with panic attacks or anxiety disorders can connect you with others facing the same problems.
Don’t let anxiety get the best of you. Talk to your doctor for more advice.
