Mental Health: Why Being Anxious is Okay (and What You Can Do About It)
We live in a world where we are constantly bombarded with messages telling us that we need to be perfect. We need to have the perfect body, the perfect job, the perfect relationship, and the perfect life. And if we don't have all of those things, we're somehow not good enough. So it's no wonder that so many of us are anxious a lot of the time!
But here's the thing: being anxious is okay. In fact, it's more than okay - it's normal. Everyone experiences anxiety at some point in their lives. And while it might not be pleasant, it's nothing to be ashamed of. So what can you do about it? Here are some tips:
Get moving.
Exercise is a great way to reduce or relieve feelings of anxiety. It helps to release endorphins, which have mood-boosting properties. Even just a short walk around the block can make a difference. Weight training can be a really helpful way to reduce stress in the moment due to the slow, controlled nature of the movement plus the feeling of pushing or pulling against something can help release that energy.
Find a controlled, comfortable space.
Having a place where you can feel a bit more centered and be present in the moment can be very helpful for managing anxiety. This could be a dedicated room in your house or even just a corner of your bedroom where you can go to relax and center yourself. This space should feel physically & emotionally safe for you. Try the next tip while you’re in that space!
Practice deep breathing exercises.
Taking slow, deep breaths through your nose is a simple but effective way to calm anxious feelings. It helps to slow down your heart rate, clear your mind & allow your nervous system to regulate a bit.
Talk to someone who understands.
Sometimes it can be helpful to talk to someone who knows what you're going through. If you don't have anyone in your life who understands or makes you feel understood, there are plenty of online communities and support groups that can offer advice and support. Finding people who can listen & understand can have such a positive impact.
Seek professional help if necessary.
If you find that your anxiety is really affecting your quality of life, it might be time to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. Talking to & collaborating with someone who specializes in anxiety can really help you understand and manage your symptoms better.
Anxiety is normal and common - but that doesn't mean it's easy to deal with! If you're feeling anxious, there are plenty of things you can do to help yourself feel better. Exercise, deep breathing, and talking to someone who understands can all be very helpful in managing anxiety symptoms. And if your anxiety is really affecting your life, don't hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor - they can really make a difference!
