9 Under-Used Tools for Addressing Anxiety

"Anxiety is something that people deal with regularly. Whether you feel a little bit of worry or excessive apprehensiveness that results in a debilitating disorder, feeling anxious is common.

Here are nine perhaps lesser-known tools to help you diminish the impact anxiety has on you. These tools are not an alternative to professional support for those whose anxiety impacts their ability to navigate life.

Mindfulness

Are you anxious about a test as you sit down to take it? That’s normal! But often we feel anxiety about an event in the future, frequently with an uncertain outcome.

Mindfulness refers to being present in the moment. To be mindful of the now and remind yourself that you are safe, gently tap the palm of your hand or press a finger gently in the soft spot behind your ear. When you have your attention and can feel your body, tell yourself that whatever you’re worried about isn’t actually happening now. Then purposefully pay attention to where you are. For example, if you’re drinking coffee: smell the drink, pay attention to the heat, enjoy the taste, look at the image on the mug. Being where you are can help diminish your state of worry about something that may or may not come to pass.

Sing

Singing prompts the production of an assortment of feel-good chemicals in the brain, including: oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine. Remember, your brain doesn’t care if you sing “well.” The judgments you place on yourself have no impact on the production of feel-good chemicals. So belt it out! Or just hum. Either way, your mood will likely improve.

Animal Companions

Cats, dogs, horses, or any companion animal that you resonate with is going to help keep you present and help you feel connected and supported. It’s difficult to worry about the future when your dog is licking your face or your cat is purring on your chest. Physically, being with an animal can decrease the stress hormone cortisol and lower your blood pressure. In many ways, companion animals can support our mental health.

Seeking Professional Support

Intermittent experiences of feeling anxious are part of the human experience. The tips listed above should address occasional experiences of anxiety as they arise. They are also excellent tools to use along with professional support.

Professional support becomes necessary when you feel anxious regularly and/or your anxiety is getting in the way of your ability to function in your life. A compassionate psychotherapist or counselor can help you find the root of your anxiety, develop better tools for coping, and if necessary, refer you for psychiatric support.

Seek professional care if your symptoms are beginning to escalate or are difficult to bear. You deserve to live with good mental health."

*Anxiety is a universal experience, but that doesn't mean that we need to carry it without help! This article gives some really great tips for ways to help yourself through those anxious moments. I really love the singing option! You can listen to your favorite songs in the car and belt them out! So therapeutic! Personally, I also like talking how I'm feeling out with others and taking a nap. What are some of your favorite ways to handle your anxious moments?*

#Anxiety #CopingSkills #SelfCare

For the full list of the 9 tools, please refer to Psychology Today!

If you liked this article and are looking for more information on anxiety, you may like this article or this article! ❤️