In This Post: Have you been wondering what to do when anxiety hits? This post is filled with simple anxiety relief techniques (from someone who feels anxious all the time) to help things feel a little less intense when anxiety hits.
I can’t remember a time when anxiety wasn’t a major force in my life. However, from my years of dealing with it, I have found that the most helpful anxiety relief techniques are often simple and straightforward. In those moments when anxiety is consuming me, it always seems like common sense knowledge is no longer accessible in my brain. So, I’ve put this list together so that we can pull as up as a reminder of little things we can do and control when anxiety hits. I hope you find it helpful! And, if you have any simple tips to add, but sure to leave a comment!
Please note, I am simply sharing my personal experience on what works best for me. I am not a medical or mental health professional and this post is not a substitute for medical advice.
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Simples Things to Do When Anxiety Hits:
1.) Change your perspective
One of the most impactful ways I’ve been able to get more control over my anxiety has been realizing that anxiety isn’t all bad. There are actually a lot of hidden benefits to having anxiety ( <<< that post is definitely worth reading!)
2.) Sit in the sunshine
Even 5 or 10 minutes of stopping to feel the warmth on your face can help to reset your mood.
4.) Journal
Writing out all the feelings is so soothing for the soul.
4.) Put on something really soft and cozy
Fuzzy socks, an oversized hoodie, or super soft pants can go a really long way in tapping into your send of touch. By wrapping yourself in comfort physically, your just might find that your mind soaks up some of that, too.
5.) Watch your favorite childhood movie
Watching The Princess Bride always lifts my mood!
6.) Get outside
Whether it’s a walk around the block, a short run, or sitting on your deck, the benefits of fresh air shouldn’t be underestimated!
7.) Let technology help
Try one of these apps designed for improving mental health
8.) Do an at-home workout
My go-to’s lately have been virtual yoga classes from Yoga Innovations and Melissa Wood Health’s workouts.
9.) Talk to someone you know also deals with anxiety
Sometimes all you need is a reminder that you’re not alone.
10.) Remind yourself that everything is temporary
Everything is always changing and evolving, every day. You, your situation, your circumstance, everything. There is no evidence that life will be like this forever.
11.) Take a shower
Or, anything else that helps you feel refreshed!
12.) Schedule a therapy session
Nothing has given me a better handle on my mental health than going to therapy. Even just knowing I have an appointment on my calendar is helpful. It reminds me that even though I might not feel like I’m doing a great job of managing my anxiety at the moment, I am taking steps to get help myself and gain more coping skills in the long run – and that counts for so much!
A few more ideas:
- Try these 7 ways to destress when you’re having a rough day
- Grab a Mood Booster Journal
- Consider this method for turning around a breakdown
- Learn how to find comfort in feeling uncomfortable