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Instant Relief From Anxiety

Everyone has experienced the rapid heart rate, sweaty palms and confused thinking that often accompany anxiety. For some people, anxiety becomes a chronic health problem requiring attention from a medical doctor in order to determine the causes and alleviate the symptoms. Others just experience what might be considered a normal amount of anxiety when in stressful situations. But everyone can benefit from developing methods to help them deal with anxiety when it strikes.

  1. Knowledge is Power

    • It's important to understand what the symptoms of your anxiety are, as well as what situations trigger them. Symptoms of anxiety can include worrying and confusion, fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, muscle aches, difficulty swallowing, trembling, twitching, irritability and sweating. Notice exactly what you're feeling when you feel anxious, then take note of what's going on. Do you mainly feel anxious in a particular work situation, or around certain people, or when participating in another activity?

    Change the Situation

    • If possible, change the situation causing you to feel anxious: walk away from the argumentative co-worker, pass the role of family hostess on to another relative, or spend less time with people who trigger your anxiety. Sometimes, however, it's not possible to change the situation, at least not in the short term. Then it's good to have some tactics in mind for dealing with the anxiety.

    Instant Relievers

    • Positive touch reduces anxiety, so schedule a massage or give yourself a mini one by kneading the tight muscles in your neck, or pet your dog or hug a friend. Scent, too, can immediately alleviate symptoms: try sniffing essential oils of plants believed to reduce anxiety, such as lavender, sandalwood and bergamot. Humor is a great stress reliever, so watch a few minutes of a favorite comedy or try to think back on a funny situation you recently witnessed. And consider carrying a talisman of sorts, an object that reminds you of a happy event or special place, such as a rock you found in a favorite park or a seashell you picked up on vacation. Preparing a strategy for dealing with anxiety can be very helpful, but if it continues or gets worse it's best to get professional help to manage it.

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