HEALTH

Coping with Anxiety

Do you struggle with rapid breathing, restlessness, trouble concentrating, fear or worry?

You are not alone. Over 4 million teenagers in America cope with anxiety. Anxiety is your body's natural response to stress. It's a feeling of fear or anxiousness about what's to come, or the unknown. The first day of school, going to a job interview, or giving a speech, are examples of may cause most people to feel fearful and nervous.

 

There are different types and levels of anxiety. Quick panic attacks, social anxiety when you're in new or different spaces; there's also deep depression that can seem hard to shake. Post-traumatic stress (PTSD) which comes after a high stress incident. 

 

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How to deal with Anxiety

For quick, sharp panic attacks, there are simple things you can do by yourself to be calm.

Deep breathing. Sitting still with your hands on your knees, eyes closed and breathing deeply - in through your nose  - and slowly, out through your lips. Listening to yourself breathe and reassuring yourself that you are safe, you are calm and you are capable of solving the issue.

 

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Going into Nature

Sometimes a change of scenery removes the intensity of the feeling. Stepping outside, going for a walk or run, can help energize you and give you clarity to remove fear and explore solutions.

 

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Eating & Drinking 

Did you know not drinking enough water can trigger anxiety and depression? When you start feeling anxious, groggy or cranky, ask yourself the last time you drank a full glass of water? The foods you eat can also affect your mood and mind state. Too much sugar and junk food can trigger the chemicals in your brain that trigger anxiety. Choosing fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, nuts and tea and more, can all help bring you emotional and mental balance.

 

Talking to trusted adults including your parents, friend, or mentor can also help sort things out. 

 

Sometimes, anxiety and depression runs deeper. Talking with healthcare professional can be helpful in exploring other support available. For help or more information, email info@theconnectguide.com. Your inquiry is confidential.