Anxiety seems to be quite a common theme on the forum so as a sufferer of over 30 years I thought I would post some of the things that have helped me. These are just my musings, I am not qualified in any way but I do understand the feelings that range from a slight unease, all is not well to the stomach churning, diarrhoea inducing 24/7 fear that robs us of sleep and hits like a sledgehammer on waking. So here goes, in no particular order of importance
To view the anxiety as a separate entity - a cloud in a blue sky or a leaf moving down a stream. It saves getting caught up in the whole cycle and I find some relief
To make a list of things one is grateful for. People, places, experiences etc. It provides a break in a very negative feeling and allows a little bit of light to shine through
Crafts! If one can knit, crochet etc. Something that requires concentration, it provides an opportunity for mindfulness and that gives the mind a break. It maybe really difficult to pick something up but try it
To practice mindfulness, to truly observe or listen
Take a break from the internet. The internet is great, a great source of information and support but if I am particularly anxious taking a break and allowing the source of anxiety to recede a bit can be really helpful. After a couple of days I find my anxiety has lessened a bit. Writing, talking about the issue keeps it in the forefront and I find this can be unhelpful when one is really struggling
Sometimes I just wear my necklace that has a cross. I am not particularly religious but I do find comfort in it. In a higher being as it were
Remember that thoughts are just that. They cannot harm you. And you have a choice about whether to think about your thoughts or push them aside. This takes some practice and apparently happy people are very good at it!
I did have quite a bit more but my memory is playing tricks
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Topic: For those suffering with anxiety (Read 866 times)