02/22/2022
Fear and doubt are a normal part of life, yet so often, these emotions cross a line. They become overwhelming, and in many cases, paralyzing. Anxiety can take a variety of forms, including worst-case scenario thinking, frequent panic, and chronic worry. It has the uncanny ability to sneak into our lives, grow roots, and stick around, long after it’s worn out its welcome. Thankfully, there are tons of evidence-based ways to manage and reduce anxiety. Here are a few tips!
1. Did you know that as humans, we are wired to focus on the negative? Our brains are naturally drawn to see the bad. It’s an old, adaptive survival mechanism that was once helpful, and as we’ve evolved, it’s just stuck around. The key in combatting this is to train your brain to see all of the 'stuff,' not just the bad, scary stuff. This approach is similar to how a scientist operates. They look at each and every data point. They don’t draw conclusions based on just a few data points, and they can’t exclude data they don’t like. They look at all of it, thoughtfully and logically, before they draw their conclusion. With anxiety, consider all of the data points, not just the negative and scary ones.
2. As humans, we spend nearly 47 percent of our waking hours thinking about something other than what we’re doing. 47 percent! This constant mind-wandering is both draining and anxiety-provoking, and we spend a ton of time worrying about things that will never happen. Learn to redirect your attention back to the present moment, focusing on the here and now. Afraid of how your big meeting will go tomorrow? Be where you are. Worried about a recent health issue? Be where you are. Overanalyzing the future of your relationship? Be where you are. Redirect your attention to the present moment, over and over. It takes practice, but like a muscle, it gets stronger with use.
3. Taking a slow, deep breath is one of the quickest, most effective ways to reduce your anxiety in any given moment. The little-known secret is to gently pause between your inhale and exhale, holding your breath for a few moments. It’s in this brief pause that you begin to slow down, feeling a release of tension in both your body and your brain.
4. “I should eat healthier. I should’ve known better. I shouldn’t have said that. I should speak up more. I should be a more patient parent. I should go. I shouldn’t have overreacted.” While you probably intend the word “should” to be motivating, it’s usually the exact opposite. Try replacing 'should statements' with something less shame-ridden.
“It’s important to me; I want to; I’m going to make time for; I’d like to.” This small language shift can drastically improve mood, as well as your confidence.
5. Anxiety can be so convincing. It has a way of getting into the tiniest cracks and crevices of your brain, growing roots before you realize it. It makes up stories, draws conclusions, and generates all kinds of possibilities. And these thoughts often seem so real. But remember, your thoughts are not the truth. Your thoughts may feel real, but when you step back and look at things logically (like a scientist, remember?) you’ll notice that they’re not always as accurate as they seem. Healthy self-talk is a huge part of managing anxiety. Learn to question your anxious thoughts. Embrace the phrase, “My thoughts are not always accurate,” and use it on repeat. It takes some work, and it’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.