Breaking Free: Overcoming Anxiety and Embracing a Life of Peace
Anxiety is a feeling of fear or worry caused by a combination of factors ranging from genetics to environmental to brain chemistry. This can cause sweating, trouble concentrating, restlessness and tension, and a rapid heartbeat.
Anxiety disorders are conditions in which anxiety does not go away and can get worse over time. There are several anxiety disorders, some of which are: panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), separation anxiety, illness anxiety, phobia, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder
Anxiety doesn’t have a quick fix, it can be treated in several ways. Besides medication, therapy, and home remedies that involve being intentional about a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and exercise as treatments for anxiety, here are a few simple habits to use to overcome anxiety and embrace a life of peace.
- Acknowledge it: The first step to finding a solution is acknowledging there’s a problem.
- Learn strategies to deal with symptoms: Equip yourself with information. Talk to a doctor, join a support group where others share their experiences on how they deal with anxiety, and make use of resources online (like you’re doing now as you read this article)
- Journal: Keeping a journal of feelings and experiences can help a mental healthcare provider determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
- Know yourself: Discover your triggers and find healthy coping mechanisms such as affirmations
- Set small, achievable goals: People suffering from anxiety tend to set unrealistically high expectations for themselves. Setting small goals will boost confidence and a sense of achievement.
- Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that involves using natural plant extracts and essential oils to promote the health and well-being of the mind and body.
