5 Tips for Managing Anxiety
Nearly 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety. There are common times to feel anxiety, such as before a job interview or speaking at a large public event. However, anxiety becomes worrisome when these feelings linger or don’t go away, causing everyday activities to become difficult. If you’re looking for ways to manage anxiety, check out the following five tips:
1. Be Active Regularly
Regular physical activity can significantly improve your mental health. Exercise can help divert your attention away from things that trigger anxiety. According to the American Psychological Association, regular exercise can increase concentration and willpower, which can help alleviate certain symptoms of anxiety.
2. Prioritize Good Sleeping Habits
Sleep has been shown to improve mental health. As an adult, you should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Having a hard time sleeping can be a common symptom of anxiety. Therefore, if you’re struggling getting a good night’s rest, it’s important to reach out to your doctor.
3. Limit Caffeine Consumption
Since caffeine is a stimulant, it can increase your chances of experiencing anxiety symptoms, such as increased heart rate. Everyone’s reaction to caffeine varies, so it’s important to monitor yours, especially if it’s triggering any symptoms of anxiety. If you currently drink caffeine, try to avoid consuming more than your usual amount per day or replace your daily caffeinated beverage with something else, such as decaffeinated coffee or tea.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
Low blood sugar, dehydration and chemicals found in certain foods can alter some people’s moods. So, if you notice any changes in your mood after consuming certain foods, take note. If you notice a pattern in your mood from particular foods, try eliminating or limiting the amount of those foods you consume. Foods that can trigger negative emotions and mood fluctuations in certain people include artificial flavorings, artificial colorings, preservatives and sugar.
5. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness can help bring awareness to the present moment. Since anxiety pertains to worried thoughts about the future, practicing mindfulness can help train your brain to refocus those thoughts. The most common way to practice mindfulness tends to be through meditation.
Disclaimer: If you think you may have anxiety or any other mental health conditions, it’s first important to seek professional help for your anxiety before trying to treat yourself at home. For more information on anxiety and tips on how to manage it, reach out to your health care provider.The information provided is for educational purposes and should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any conditions. Consult with your medical provider for diagnosis and treatment of all medical conditions. Call 911 for medical emergencies.