How to Control Anxiety Disorder

Nearly everyone experiences anxiety sometimes. It is your body's way of letting you know that you are facing a threatening situation. This response is important to your survival because it lets you know that you need to find a way out of the situation. However, anxiety can become a problem if it takes over your life by causing irrational fears. When this happens, the fears can become so overwhelming that they may threaten your ability to function.

Instructions

Steps to Control Anxiety Disorder

• 1

  Face your fears. For example, if you are afraid of speaking in front of large groups, start by giving a speech in front of one friend. As you become more comfortable, speak before a small group, and eventually you will feel more at ease talking to large audiences.

• 2

  Use visualization techniques to calm yourself. Close your eyes and picture yourself relaxing at the beach. Imagine yourself listening to nature, such as the sounds of the waves and the wildlife nearby.

• 3

  Stay physically active. Regular physical activity will help you stay more relaxed. Go for a bike ride, start jogging, or take a brisk walk.

• 4

  Stay away from drinks such as coffee and tea that contain caffeine. Caffeine can cause you to feel nervous and jittery.

• 5

  Avoid using certain medications. For example, decongestants and weight-loss pills can cause anxiety.

• 6

  Learn more about anxiety and its treatment from the resources listed below. If you still cannot eliminate your anxiety symptoms after following.these steps, contact your medical doctor. She can help you identify whether other, more complex issues might be involved; then, if necessary, she can recommend other trained professionals who can help you resolve the problem.