Contributed by Tuppence H.
Most of us experience feelings of anxiety, panic, fear, even dread, from time to time. But sometimes these feelings can be overwhelming. So, the question is how can you deal with them? Here are a few ways to work through anxiety. You don’t have to try all of them, just choose which ones you feel most comfortable with.
Probability check. Go over the probability of whatever you fear actually coming true. Yes, there is a possibility of you becoming homeless or making someone angry or not getting out of some kind of bind but, how much of a possibility is there? Do you have other places to go? Have you ever angered someone and lived to talk about it? When you have felt this way in the past, how often did what you feared actually happen?
Proactivity. Do some forward problem solving. If your fear is really great, why not come up with possible solutions before ‘it’ happens. Where could you go for help? Who would be a good source of support? How might you address the problem?
Breathing practice. Taking deep breaths before you feel the anxiety building can help reduce your anxiety. If you practice deep breathing and clearing your mind on a regular basis (when you are already feeling good for example), it will be easier to do when you are feeling anxious.
Acceptance. Begin to learn that getting anxious is a part of life. So, if it does happen, you will become less likely to put pressure on yourself trying to deny or avoid those feelings.
Face your fears. If something makes you anxious, exposing yourself to the problem will help you accept it. Seeing it for what it is will help you see the reality of the situation and help all of the fears you create in your head go away.
Intervention. If your anxiety is consistently overwhelming and you’ve done everything within your power to handle it, ask for support from people you trust and, if necessary, get professional help. Remember, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Think of it as an opportunity to take care of you!
How do you handle your feelings of anxiety?
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