Anxiety is an important and valuable emotion. When used wisely by the brain, it helps us to be ready to handle anything that’s coming our way. It preps the brain to act, the body to be ready to respond, and increases awareness. Yet, it can also get out of control. Reducing anxiety is important for most people living in a stressful world. At BrightView, we want to help you learn coping skills and strategies for anxiety.
How Can You Get Anxiety Under Control?
You may be able to control anxiety more than you think is possible. Even if it feels overwhelming and impossible, reducing anxiety is possible with a few steps.
1. Focus on Reality
Most often, anxiety develops from worrying about things you cannot control and things that have not happened. You’re worried about what’s to come. Instead, try to focus on what’s happening right now. Don’t worry about what you can’t control yet. This is very hard to do, but forcing yourself to do so is essential. You may be able to do this by:
- Staying active
- Avoid allowing yourself to go to bed without being tired enough to fall asleep
- Spending time with other people – avoid being alone
- Engage in physical activity of some type
- Journal about what’s happening right now, leaving out any fears
2. Get Physical Exercise
Another way to reduce anxiety is to get your body moving. That may include spending some time walking or running. You may also want to work out, go for a swim, or get outside with the kids. Exercise is valuable because it helps to burn off cortisol, the stress hormone that’s moving through your body.
3. Take Care of Your Physical Needs
Anxiety taxes your body. It’s important to eat well-balanced meals when you’re worried, even if that comfort food seems like a better option. Sleep well. Try to get enough sleep each night.
4. Practice Deep Breathing for Anxiety
When you feel anxiety building up, you can use deep breathing and meditation to help you to gain more control over what’s happening to you. This takes some practice, but learning how to do meditation can give you some level of control over the way your body is reacting to the hormones. For example, you’ll be able to learn how to slow your heart rate down or slow your breathing.
5. Find Someone to Talk to About What’s Happening
The more you keep things in your mind and not expressed, the harder those thoughts work against you. When it comes to reducing anxiety, admitting there is a problem present is an important step. It is also important for you to recognize you can do something about it as well. You’re not alone in your battle with whatever is happening. You just need to have the right people to help you.
Reducing Anxiety in Recovery
If you are in drug or alcohol recovery, or you are using substances like these to reduce anxiety, it’s time to get some help. Not doing so puts you at risk for a wide range of health complications. Our team at BrightView can offer help. We offer a comprehensive program designed to help you at any stage of drug or alcohol use to gain control. Learn more about our treatment programs:
- Outpatient treatment programs
- Medication-assisted treatment program
- Addiction recovery treatment options
- Counseling and therapy for addiction
- Peer recovery supporters
Stop Your Anxiety in Its Tracks with Help from BrightView
Anxiety is a powerful emotion, and it’s important to keep it under control. Reducing anxiety is always key for good mental health. However, when a person is struggling with addiction recovery, it’s even more critical. Our team at BrightView can offer the help and guidance you need to achieve lasting recovery. Reach out to us by calling 833-510-4357 today.
