How to overcome anxiety

Conquering Anxiety

For the average person, the idea of getting up on a stage and delivering a speech in front of 100 people is slightly nerve-wracking. For someone who suffers from panic attacks or an anxiety disorder, however, that scenario is downright impossible.

Anxiety

Overcoming anxiety can be challenging and there are no absolute quick-fix solutions — but there are things you can do to help minimise the impact it has on your life.

Research your anxiety

Getting a better understanding of your anxiety will help you to figure out why it makes you feel the way it does. By tackling it head on you'll not only gain knowledge and understanding, but you'll also connect with other people who share similar experiences.

Count to 10

If you're in the moment and you're feeling anxious, you need to step back from the situation to allow yourself some clarity. Take a deep breath, count calmly to 10 and start again.

Set goals

Write a list of the goals and work towards achieving them. This will divert your thoughts away from your anxieties and helps you to focus on the goal at hand.

Affirmations

At the beginning of each day, tell yourself how you'd like your life to be, and mentally map out the changes you could make to make that life a reality. Affirmations are best done in the morning before you face the day so you can work to overcome each hurdle as it approaches.

Consoling a friend

Sounding board

Confide in a friend or family member that you really trust. With them, you can discuss challenges and share your anxieties; sometimes a friendly ear will go a long way.

Exercise

Aim to take a walk, jog or ride a bike at least every other day. It doesn't matter what you do, as long as you give yourself some time to get some fresh air and clear your head.

Journal

In order to work out what is triggering the anxiety, keep a journal handy so you can record your feelings, thoughts and your environment when something happens. Afterwards, you can look for patterns in your behaviour.

See youR doctor

Don't be afraid to see your doctor about your anxiety. It is one of the most common ailments on the planet and doctors are accustomed to dealing with patients in your situation every day of the week.