Anxiety is our body’s response to stress.  It can range from a sick feeling in the pit of our stomach to a feeling of utter dread. We all deal with everyday stressors, though there are times when other pressures can weigh us down & leave us feeling utterly drained & unable to cope. You may even avoid situations or places to prevent these feelings

People with anxiety disorders often have extreme, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. Often, anxiety disorders involve repeated episodes of instant feelings of extreme anxiety and fear that reach a peak within minutes (panic attacks).  For some, symptoms may begin during childhood & continue into adulthood. It may not be possible to rid yourself of anxiety completely, but it is possible to control & live with.  #hope

Anxiety disorder is an umbrella term that include different conditions.  #fear

General Anxiety Disorder (GAD):  Feelings of excessive unrealistic worry for no reason

Social Anxiety: Intense fear of social gatherings & events.  #anxietyisreal

Specific phobias   Fear of heights, spiders etc.

Separation anxiety   Fear of being away from home or family

Here are some of the effects anxiety can have on our body:

Headaches

Aches & pains

Extreme fatigue

Irritability

A feeling of doom

Loss of control

Panic attack

Some tips to help us cope with anxiety:

Focus on 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, 1 thing you can taste

Take note of what triggers your anxiety

Write your worry down…a thought journal

Treat your anxiety like it is separate from you

Acknowledge how you feel

Talk to a friend

Be kind to yourself

Eat well balanced meals #nutrition

Cut down on alcohol

Get enough sleep

Exercise

Accept you cannot change everything

Ask for help

Do your best   

When you manage your anxiety, you are also taking care of your physical health. 

You must find a place inside you where nothing is impossible