A large number of adults suffer from anxiety and stress. It is only natural that we will endure stressful situations in our day to day lives, but unfortunately, some of us will have more difficulty in dealing with them. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), about 40 million people over the age of 18 suffer from anxiety.
Stress not only affects people in their daily activities but also leaves them lying awake at night; the lack of sleep certainly doesn’t aid in stress and anxiety. If you are someone who has trouble dealing with stress and anxiety, keep on reading to learn about a few tips that can help you manage it more efficiently.
#1 Become more mindful
You will be surprised to learn the power you have over yourself when it comes to how you think. Try and practice being more mindful. Whenever you feel yourself overwhelmed with stress or anxiety, learn to talk yourself down instead of antagonizing yourself. Focus on thinking only positive thoughts. By learning to self-soothe, you will be amazed at what you are capable of. Remember positive self-talk phrases such as the following:
“This too shall pass”
“I will get through this, I always do”
“I am safe”
“I am in control”
“I have the power to overcome this”
#2 Place an emphasis on your relationships
Relationships contribute immensely to our happiness. By making sure that you maintain healthy and trusting relationships with your close friends and family, and by having someone you can lean on or talk to, you will automatically feel more secure overall.
#3 Get in your daily exercise
Exercising is not only extremely important for our physical health, but it also has a significant impact for our mental health. Exercising regularly helps to level out certain chemicals and hormones in our body. It also helps to release endorphins, and endorphins trigger feelings of happiness.
#4 Maintain a healthy diet
There is actually research that backs up the assertion that eating a good-sized serving of fruits and vegetables every day is common among happy people. Sugar and unhealthy carbs and starches can mess with our energy levels and the composition of our body, which can produce low feelings. Eating a healthy diet will help you feel healthier and happier.
#5 Avoid numbing yourself with alcohol and comfort food
Although easing the pain with alcohol or comfort food can help very temporarily, it will only make you feel worse in the long run. These things may help with the reduction of cortisol on a short-term basis, but they are unhealthy ways of dealing with stress and anxiety and can create bad habits and problems in the long run.
#6 Make sure you are getting enough sleep
Sleep is essential when it comes to our overall health, especially with managing stress and anxiety. There is a good amount of studies that have shown how a lack of sleep can increase feelings of stress, sadness, anger, and anxiety. So, if you are struggling with anxiety and stress throughout the day, make sure you are doing everything you can to get a good night’s sleep.
The best thing you can do alongside all of these stress and anxiety managing tips is to speak to a professional about it. If you are looking for a therapy center in Carrolton, then Lifeworks is here for you. Our trusted and caring team of mental health experts has helped people all over the area and are eager to continue doing so. Contact us today and let’s get started on a healthier, happier you.