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8 Techniques All Anxious People Should Use, Advises a Psychologist
Anxiety can sometimes be completely paralyzing, making everyday life difficult. However, feelings of tension, worry, and fear—whether mild or intense—can be managed. In moments of anxiety or discomfort, there are ways to stop yourself and regain a sense of calm.
TL;DR
- Distance yourself from anxious thoughts by acknowledging them as just thoughts and analyzing evidence.
- Use grounding techniques, like listing sensory inputs or a forward bend, to calm the body's stress response.
- Practice controlled breathing, such as 'box breathing' (inhale, hold, exhale for equal counts), to regain calm.
- Schedule a specific 'worry window' to contain anxieties and prevent constant rumination.
- Gradually confront feared situations to reduce their power over time.
- Engage in regular physical activity to improve mood and manage anxiety-related physical sensations.
- Reduce caffeine intake, as it can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
- Shift your perspective to view anxiety as a temporary state rather than a fixed part of your identity.