Understanding And Coping With Anxiety

Although your anxiety may leave you feeling alone – you must understand that this is not the case. In fact, 40 million adults in the US alone battle anxiety each year. That works out to around 18% of the population. Although we are gradually getting better at being open and honest regarding our mental health, understanding our anxiety (and how to manage it), is still rather difficult. 

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Firstly, it is important that you understand the signs of symptoms of anxiety – as it is far more than feeling a little uneasy. Signs of anxiety include:

• Feeling nervous
• Feeling restless or irritable 
• Feelings tense and unable to settle
• Hyperventilation, or tightness in your chest
• Exhaustion
• Unable to fall asleep easily
• Lack of focus
• Sweating
• Trembling/Shaking
• Nail-biting 
• Overthinking, or being unable to focus on anything other than one issue.

If you have any of the above symptoms, you may be suffering from anxiety. If this is affecting your everyday life, you must find ways to safely manage your feelings and symptoms. You deserve to live a happy life, free from any worry.

Here are some tips that can guide you in the right direction.

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1. Talk about how you are feeling.
Let others know if you are struggling – whether you reach out to a friend, family or professional – speaking to others will take a huge weight off your shoulders. If you aren't ready to talk just yet, write down your thoughts or feelings in a diary or journal. This will help you process how you are feeling.

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2. Do your research
There are plenty of resources online that can be used to help you better manage your anxiety – from providing access to medications or guiding you through meditation exercises. Ensure that you do your research to find out which methods work best for you. 

For example, some people find that their anxiety is best managed when they participate in regular exercise, spend time outdoors and follow a healthy diet. For others, they need to spend a bit of time being creative to feel better.

Another common way to help deal with anxiety is by taking Cannabis. It is completely safe to consume and has been scientifically proven to help relieve tension and anxiety. There are many different (and equally safe) ways to consume cannabis, so ensure you find the best method for you and your needs. You can always ask for advice at your local cannabis dispensary – the staff are fun and friendly and will be able to answer any questions you might have. 

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3. Get out of your comfort zone
Anxiety will try and find a way to control your life. For example, if you were thinking about starting a new hobby – it will encourage you to second guess yourself. You'll find yourself asking questions like – but what if I am no good at this? What if I embarrass myself? What will other people think of me?

One of the most effective ways in which you can silence this voice is by doing it anyway. Don't let your anxiety dictate what you can and can't do. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and prove to yourself that you can do anything you set your mind to.