Life Update: Coping Mechanisms

Here are some things that I've found helpful for me when it comes to dealing with my anxiety. Maybe they can help someone else too.

-Medication and supplements. Medication is not the only answer and should be used with other coping mechanisms. I have my daily medication and I take a low dose beta blocker for very special occasions such as major presentations. I'm looking into trying passion flower supplements and I take melatonin if I'm having a lot of issues sleeping. Obviously work with your doctor to see what would be best for you.

-Deep breathing. Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 7, exhale for 8. This pattern is meant to be used to help people sleep at night. I find it works really well for helping me calm down.

-Grounding. When I'm panicking I try to remember to look around me. I find 5 things that I can see, 4 that I can touch, 3 that I can hear, 2 that I can smell and 1 that I can taste. Often panic attacks come with a sense of losing all control. This can help with that.

-Professional therapy. I started doing Skype therapy sessions with my therapist from back home once a week.

-Exercise. I go to Zumba every Tuesday and kickboxing and hardcore abs every Wednesday. I've found that cardio workouts really help release pent up anxious energy. It also keeps your body healthy which reduces stress on your body.

-Eat healthy and always eat when you're hungry. This also reduces stress on your body.

-Drink plenty of water. Clean, filtered water has been shown to have many positive effects on reducing anxiety. If I'm in a class or public area on campus when I start to feel anxious, having a water bottle with me and drinking water helps me calm down. Staying hydrated also reduces stress on the body.

-Get enough sleep. Again, it's all about reducing stress on the body.

-Get massages. For me they're almost like a reset button. They reduce tension in your body which can help convince your brain that there's no reason to be anxious or worried.

-Yoga. I'm not the best at remembering this one but when I do, it helps a lot. The sun salutation alone can really help.

-Surround yourself with people you love and who love you. Don't waste your time with people who only cause stress and make you feel bad. Along with that, set boundaries and don't let people push them or you around. Don't be afraid to stick up for yourself. This isn't always the easiest but it's worth it in the end.

-Hugs! Hugs from people who care about you are super important and greatly reduce stress and anxiety.

-Take time every day for yourself. No exceptions.

-SELF LOVE. This is the most important thing. Don't be afraid to ask for an extension on that paper if you've had a bad week. Forgive yourself if you make a mistake or don't get everything done for the day. Take care of yourself with the tips listed above. Don't be afraid to remove yourself from situations that are causing anxiety or panic attacks.

"At the end of the day, tell yourself gently: 'I love you, you did the best you could today, and even if you didn't accomplish all you had planned, I love you anyway.'"