If you are constantly worried, tense, or have negative or catastrophic thoughts, you may be suffering from anxiety.
Although the exact causes of this disorder are not known, people who suffer from anxiety share the same risk factors, such as a state of chronic stress or a traumatic event.
Fortunately, the combination of certain attitudes can help control anxiety and even lead to the individual's complete cure.
Attitudes that can help you control anxiety
Ask for social support
People with strong social ties tend to deal with different issues in life in a healthier way than people who do not have this type of connection.
You should meet new people to support you while control anxiety. Join a local support group that cares for people who are suffering from this, join a religious or spiritual group, or visit your favorite group of close friends as often as possible.
When you feel like you belong in a group with other people, it can have significant effects on your health. In fact, research shows that older adults who receive little social support have a higher risk of mortality.
Make sleep your priority
Sleep and anxiety have a complex relationship. Lack of sleep can cause anxiety, and anxiety can cause sleep disorders.
To control anxiety, you should make an effort to get at least seven hours of sleep a night. Use the following tips to help you get enough sleep:
- Let your body adopt regular sleep habits.
- Turn off electronics about half an hour before going to bed.
- Create a comfortable environment in the bedroom
- Prepare a ritual to relax at night before going to bed.
- Use aromatherapy, such as lavender scents, to help you relax.
- Quit smoking because nicotine can affect your sleep.
Exercise every day
In addition to helping your overall health, exercise can have a significant impact on your mental well-being.
Physical activity creates endorphins, chemicals that help you feel good. So by exercising regularly, you can relieve stress and distract yourself from your worries.
Doctors suggest at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. Whether it's walking, running, swimming, or cycling, it's up to you. You just need to choose an activity that you can do long-term.
Have a balanced diet
You may not understand the connection between what you eat and how you feel, but it certainly exists. Certain foods and drinks, such as refined sugar or caffeine, increase anxiety.
Instead, you should drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals with healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean protein.
Reduce your consumption of alcohol and other depressants
You could drink alcohol to control anxiety, but you should know that this actually makes your condition worse. Instead, find a healthier outlet for stress and anxiety, like listening to music or calling a friend.
Take care
When you struggle with a mental illness like anxiety, you may be so focused on getting better and taking care of your responsibilities that you forget to take care of yourself.
Do something for yourself every day that helps relieve stress. Give yourself something to look forward to every day, whether it’s a date with a friend, a hot bath, a cup of your favorite tea, or your favorite TV show. Take a little time for yourself every day.
