Do You Live with Anxiety? Here Are 13 Ways to Cope

If you deal with anxiety, there are strategies you can use to help manage immediate symptoms, as well as long-term methods to combat recurring issues.
Anxiety is the body’s response to real or perceived danger. It’s a natural process that every person deals with at one time or another.
People often use anxiety as a blanket term for a general feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease. However, there’s a difference between feeling anxious and having an anxiety disorder, the latter of which includes many different conditions.

۴ immediate skills for coping with anxiety
If your anxiety is sporadic and getting in the way of your focus or tasks, some quick natural remedies could help you take control of the situation.
Suppose your anxiety is focused on a situation, such as worrying about an upcoming event. In that case, you may notice the symptoms are short-lived and usually subside after the anticipated event takes place.

۱. Question your thought pattern
Unhelpful thoughts can take root in your mind and distort the severity of the situation. One way is to challenge your fears, ask if they’re true, and see where you can regain control.
2. Practice focused, deep breathing
Measured breathing practices may help you manage immediate feelings of anxiety. By evening out your breath, you’ll slow your heart rate, which should help calm you down.

The 4-7-8 technique is another popular breathing pattern for anxiety management.
3. Use aromatherapy
Limited research suggests that aromatherapy can help reduce feelings of anxiety in some settings.
Whether they’re in essential oil form, incense, or a candle, natural scents like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood can be very soothing.

۴. Exercise
Sometimes, the best way to stop anxious thoughts is to leave a situation and get moving. Focusing on your body and not your mind may help relieve your anxiety. Low impact exercises like walking, yoga, and tai-chi can often help people to reduce stress and manage anxiety symptoms.
8 long-term strategies for coping with anxiety
If anxiety is a regular part of your life, it’s important to find treatment strategies to help you keep it in check.

۱. Identify and learn to manage your triggers
2. Try therapy
3. Ask your doctor about medications
4. Do a daily or routine meditation
5. Keep a journal
6. Socialize
7. Staying active