5 Steps to Relieving Anxiety Fast

While it’s absolutely normal to be anxious about a life change or an important event such as an interview, millions of Americans live with an anxiety disorder. An anxiety disorder is beyond the occasional worry or fear. Whether you’re having a normal attack of nervousness or you are suffering from an anxiety disorder, there are simple steps you can take to get relief.

Live in the Present

Anxiety is a state of mind that’s future-oriented. So, instead of getting nervous about what’s going to happen, just try to live in the present. Relate to what’s happening in the now and think of what you can do about the situation. If that’s not possible, revisit your worries later in the day so the distant scenarios do not get you off track.

Re-labeling Events Works

Panic attacks often make people feel like they’re dying or having a heart attack. Remember that such incidences are harmless and temporary and there’s nothing you need to do about them. Keep in mind that a panic attack isn’t really a sign of impending death. It’s just that your body is activating the fight-or-flight response.

Avoid Sugar

When you’re stressed, it might be tempting to reach for something sugary. However, that chocolate bar or candy can do more harm than good. Research has shown that consuming excess sugar can worsen feelings of anxiety. At this time, your body requires a slow energy source to recover. So, eat protein or drink a glass of water.

Eating too much sugar causes your body to release insulin to absorb excess glucose in your bloodstream and bring about a balance. As such, your system works extra hard to restore normal levels, leading to feelings of nervousness.

Get a Weighted Blanket

Also called an anxiety blanket, this product is safer than medication and other types of treatment for people who have problems with nervousness. Weighted blankets can also complement existing therapies. Apart from anxiety, they also reduce and manage insomnia and autism, according to research.

When you’re sleeping, a weighted blanket can ground your body by pushing it downwards, resulting in a deeply calming effect. It also simulates deep pressure touch (DPT), a kind of therapy that uses firm, hands-on force to reduce high levels of anxiety and chronic stress.

Studies show that grounding can help reduce nighttime cortisol levels. This is the stress hormone that elicits the fight-or-flight response. By providing DPT, anxiety blankets can promote relaxation and trigger the release of dopamine and serotonin, feel-good hormones that the brain produces. The duo can help combat depression, stress, and anxiety.

Watch Some Funny Videos

This is one of the easiest tips to relieve anxiety. Just get clips of your favorite cartoon, comedian, or TV show. Laughing is one of the greatest prescriptions you can give to your anxious mind. Research shows that laughter offers several benefits to your mental health and well-being. It can lower anxiety better than exercise.

Conclusion

Anxiety is a condition of the mind that you can relieve by using simple methods. You don’t have to go for unsafe medication or other treatments. Just change your thoughts, avoid sugar, enjoy watching a funny video, and get a weighted blanket.