With recent events in our country and around the globe, there is a fair amount of uncertainty, which can contribute to stress and anxiety. Everyone handles stress and anxiety in their own way. We thought you could benefit from some helpful hints on how to manage anxiety as we face every day during this time. We want you to feel as relaxed as possible!
Just remember, we all deal with stress and anxiety at some point in our lives. These are just some helpful ways to try and manage stress and anxiety more effectively. Remember to take care of yourself, physically and mentally during uncertain times. You will be glad you did. This too shall pass.
Treat Yourself
One way to manage stress and anxiety is to treat yourself to things that make you happy, also known as “self-care.” Self-care includes things such as eating right, exercising, getting enough sleep and taking time to make sure you are feeling good mentally and physically in order to maintain good physical and mental health. Go ahead and treat yourself ease anxiety! Everyone rewards themselves differently-maybe you would like to treat yourself to a favorite snack or meal or take part in an activity you enjoy. Perhaps it involves taking some extra time for you to rest and relax. At the end of the day, make sure to be patient and forgiving with yourself. Give yourself a break!Remember Happy Moments that Made You Smile
Many times, remembering happy memories is a great distraction to help cope with stress and anxiety. Thinking about good times you may have had with family and friends a trip or vacation, or other meaningful events are a great way to lift your spirits. Go back and look at pictures of people and events that brought you happiness. It’s important to keep these memories alive. Congratulate yourself for all of the great things you have done. Remember how great you felt when you reached a goal or overcame an obstacle that you worked hard to achieve? You can still be successful, even during uncertain circumstances. Try reliving some of your happy moments to help you through your tough times.Stay Connected to Friends and Family
Our friends and family members can be great support systems for us when feeling stressed. It is important to be there for others and for our loved ones to support us during stressful times. A phone call, a text a quick email or even spending time on a video conference with people who make you smile can work wonders for stress levels. Sharing your feelings with others can help you realize that you are not alone with your stress and anxiety. Reach out to people who have been there for you and care about you. It will do wonders for your state of mind. You can also help the people you reach out to by helping them realize you are there to support them as well.Let Go of What You Can’t Control
In life, as a rule, we cannot always control the things that are happening around us, but we can control how we react to our circumstances. Take a minute to breathe and just do the very best you can and, most of all, take things one day at a time. Do what is best for you. Use good judgment, responsible and cautious in the actions you take. Be confident in your abilities to manage your stress and your actions during difficult times. Use this time to channel your energy in a more productive direction. Work on a project you have been putting off or spend time a hobby that you enjoy. Instead of focusing on your stress and anxiety and how the circumstances make you feel, spend your time on a productive project or hobby. This is a time where distractions can be healthy for our mental well-being.Don’t Go It Alone-Ask for Help When Needed
Let’s face it, we all need help at times. None of us are immune! If you get to a place where you think you may need some extra help in managing your stress and anxiety, reach out and ask for it. Many schools have resources available for students who may need someone to talk to during difficult times. There are companies who also have these resources available for their employees. Your primary health care provider should also be able to refer you to a professional if the need arises. There are people who are available to listen when you need to talk through your anxious feelings.Just remember, we all deal with stress and anxiety at some point in our lives. These are just some helpful ways to try and manage stress and anxiety more effectively. Remember to take care of yourself, physically and mentally during uncertain times. You will be glad you did. This too shall pass.
