Thanks
Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist
It is good news that your anxiety is mild. The sooner you learn to manage it, the better your prognosis. The reason being - the longer your body stays in the fight/flight zone, your symptoms (having a faster heart rate or worrisome thoughts) will become a habit.
Therefore, managing your symptoms early and repeatedly will have the desired effect and a slower heart rate, deeper breathing and calming thoughts will become your norm.
There are many CBT tools for anxiety. Research has proven that CBT is very effecttive in treating anxiety.
One tool is distraction which is why you feel worse when you are not occupied. Simple solution - as soon as you feel anxiety rising, distract yourself. It can be with an activity or just by focusing on your breathing,
Exercise is a great tool because you secrete endorphins which elevate mood and will calm you down. Keep up the exercise.
Another major factor is stressing about your anxiety. If you can stop worrying about it, it will reduce. Anxiety is self limiting and only lasts for a few minutes at a time if you "ignore it" or tell yourself "This will pass in a few moments". Anxiety will only plateau or increase if you catastrophise about your symptoms.
If you do not find the relief that you are after on your own, consult with an anxiety specialist who will work with you utilising CBT tools in a systematic way.
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post.
to your account or now (it's free).