According to a recent study, 19.1% of adults in the US have an anxiety disorder. And while a little anxiety can be channeled into something positive, it should not be something you face on a daily basis. For example, being nervous before a job interview could be considered to be an asset, as it means you prepare more thoroughly, giving you better chances at success. However, if you find that you spend most of your day being anxious, it may be time to look into how you can take control of the situation.
Of course, it would be disingenuous to say that anxiety is completely within our control – especially as it is impacted by so many external factors. However, there are certain changes you can make that dictate how you respond to these factors, and therefore the impact anxious thoughts can have on your life.
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With that in mind, here are some simple strategies you can use to better manage anxiety.
Consider therapy. Speaking to a therapist is a great way to take some of the weight off your shoulders. This is because they’ll help you work through your problems until you find the root cause of your anxiety. This will help you to better understand (and manage) your feelings. For example, they could help you develop effective coping techniques or determine what anxiety triggers you must avoid.
Consider CBD products. CBD products are famed for their mood-enhancing properties and have been used for centuries as a method of easing some of the physical side effects brought on by anxiety. They are also an effective tool for
dealing with chronic pain. Furthermore, there are various CBD products to choose from, such as pens, topicals, and even vapour oils. You can find out more at getbloomfarms.com.
Try to get more sleep. When we don’t get enough rest, it’s only natural that we won’t feel 100% the next day. However, studies suggest that a lack of sleep also increases our body’s production of cortisol, which is otherwise known as the “stress hormone”. As a result, those looking to combat anxiety should try to find a way to improve their sleep schedule. Again, there are various options for you to consider. For example, you could carry out some home renovations which will create a positive environment for you to spend time in, and improve your bedroom for better sleep. However, you could also listen to guided meditations as you drift off, which is particularly useful if you find that your thoughts begin to race the minute you lie down each night.
Reduce your caffeine consumption. Whether you are a new parent or dealing with a busy work schedule, caffeine can quickly become a lifeline. However, those who consume too much caffeine tend to report higher levels of anxiety and similar disorders. This is “because caffeine stimulates your “fight or flight” response, and research has shown that this can make anxiety worse and can even trigger an anxiety attack”. As such, you should try to cut back on caffeine where possible, perhaps limiting yourself to just one coffee a day.