Self Help Treatments for Anxiety

Manage Your Thoughts

• First and foremost handling stress means controlling your thoughts. The problem is, as humans, we can't stop thinking. We're always thinking, but people who suffer from anxiety dwell on negative and fearful thoughts. One effective way to minimize anxious thoughts is to exercise. Exercise works really well because anxiety can express itself as tension in the body and physical exertion dissipates that tension. Some activities that may help are yoga, tai chi and jogging. Exercise reduces anxious thoughts because it takes the mind away from the constant thinking. Another way to take your mind away from thoughts is deep breathing or meditation.
  
  

Connect With Others

• Forming close bonds with others counteracts anxiety. Communicating honestly with a loved one, friend or therapist builds stronger ties and allow you to feel supported during difficult times. People who suffer from anxiety are often more isolated from others, and isolation helps feed anxious thoughts. But keep in mind It's only appropriate to share your anxious thoughts with someone if he or she can help you solve your problems and stop worrying rather than someone who joins you in ruminating about fears. Also keep in mind that giving to others enhances your well-being and optimism. Do some volunteer work. Volunteer work develops your generosity and gratitude and helps you control your thoughts--- instead of focusing on your problems you'll realize you can help others who have more serious problems than you have. You become less anxious when you perform selfless acts.
  
  

Take Constructive Action

• Constructive action is better than anxious paralysis, but distinguish between what you can and cannot control. You may not be able to control whether or not your job has layoffs, but you can focus on doing the best job possible. You may also brush up your resume and make sure you're living within your means. Eat right. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and whole grains lowers the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline, elevates the feel-good brain chemical seratonin, wards off fatigue, decreases blood pressure and strengthens immunity. Getting enough sleep at night is also crucial as sleeplessness increases your anxiety. If you approach your uncertainty from a place of strength and constructive action you'll improve your mental state.