Coping With Anxiety

Coping with anxiety is something that everyone struggles with, even those who don’t suffer from panic attacks or social anxiety disorders.  But what can we do in our daily lives to help ease the pain and frustration caused by anxiety?

First off, it’s important to know that EVERYONE suffers from anxiety.

Sure, some people may experience more uncomfortable levels of anxiety and worry than others, but even those whom you think have their lives “all together” and seem to not have a care in the world still do experience anxiety.  Which leads us to the next point.

It’s perfectly normal and natural to feel anxious every now and then.

If you think about it, we come programmed with built-in anxieties that help us survive.  Does the sight of a hungry lion growling in your direction make you feel anxious?  Good – it should!  Some levels of anxiety before taking an important test or giving a key presentation are also okay.  Healthy low levels of anxiety can help us to better focus on the task at hand and give it our best effort.

Not all anxiety is bad.

Think about the anticipatory anxiety you have before you ride a roller coaster or do something that scares you, and that rush of adrenaline and elation you feel once it’s over.  Or how about the anxiety and nervousness you feel when you’re on a first date with someone you’re really interested in?  This kind of anxiety is the spice of life!  It lets us know and feel that we’re truly alive, and helps us grow beyond our comfort zone.

So just remember that some anxiety in our lives is actually okay and can be quite healthy.  It’s only when we let our worries get out of hand that anxiety becomes a real problem that needs to be addressed (believe me I know what it’s like!).  So keep these points in mind and it will make coping with anxiety in your life much easier.

Cheers,
Steve

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