How to Deal With Anxiety

Most people experience anxiety at some point in their lives. Anxiety may be chronic or be caused by a difficult situation. For example, after dealing with a major illness, you may experience anxiety. Most people may think once a physical recovery is made, your problems are over. However, anxiety may still be present. There are steps to take to deal with anxiety and feel well both physically and emotionally.

Instructions

• 1

  Acknowledge how you're feeling. After recovery from an illness, for example, you may feel you should be grateful for your health. It may be hard to admit you are feeling anxious or stressed. Keep in mind it's normal to have anxiety and admitting it is the first step in dealing with it.

• 2

  Think about your fears. Ask yourself what you are anxious about. For example, you may be fearful your illness will return or you are reliving traumatizing medical procedures. An illness may have made you think about dying for the first time. Narrowing down what is causing the anxiety will help you address each issue and work through it.

• 3

  Learn the facts about anxiety. Some level of anxiety after an illness may be caused by a fear of a relapse. Speak with your doctor about early warning signs. Learn what screenings and tests you can have to catch a problem early. An illness may cause you to feel helpless. Take charge of your health and be proactive. It can help you feel in control and lessen anxiety.

• 4

  Get back into life. If you took time off from work, consider returning to your job if medically able. Participate in hobbies you enjoyed. If your illness inspired you to work for a cure or become an activist get involved. The more time you spend living your life and participating in activities the less time you may have to dwell on problems.

• 5

  Consider writing down your thought and feelings everyday. Sometimes getting your feelings out and expressing yourself helps reduce stress. It may help you to work through your fears.