I had debilitating anxiety for years, and because it stuck around for so long, it caused other issues. I have learned a lot on my mental health journey, and I would like to share my knowledge. Here are 12 ideas and strategies that can help reduce anxiety and all that stems from it.
Prepping for School
Prepare for and anticipate any of your anxiety triggers, whatever they may be. Whether missing a meal or discussing a particular topic, our comfort is the ultimate priority. If you need to leave the classroom and sit in the hall to breathe or take a stroll, do so. If your school will not allow that then figure out how to get a 504 plan with accommodations.
Learn Time Management and Executive Functions
When you plan your time, you will reduce any stress and anxiety and improve your performance level. You can do it!
Step Out of your Comfort Zone
You will be slightly uncomfortable sometimes, but you will gain more confidence in every task you accomplish.
Live Your Truth
Be honest with others. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings. If you do not want to go somewhere or do something, then don’t. Be honest with yourself.
Self-Care Bear
Remember to pamper yourself with a bubble bath, a day at the spa, some simple personal hygiene time such as shaping your eyebrows, trimming your beard or enjoying a facial can help you feel good about yourself. Take care of your inner self as well; trust your instincts and abilities. You may not excel at public speaking, but you probably excel at many other things such as knitting
Find Your Passion
Identify a healthy activity and do it whether it be singing, painting, collecting rocks or meditating. Practicing a hobby will also ease your level of anxiety and offer you opportunities to interact with others.
Try Yoga
Find a class that is right for you, whether its restorative yoga or candlelight yoga. Yoga will work wonders for both your physical and emotional needs.
Dabble with Essential Oils and Crystals
If you don’t mind the smell of essential oils I would really recommend them. They can help with almost everything from stomach aches to anxiety. Lavender, Ylang-ylang, and Patchouli are all calming and can aid in relaxation. Peppermint and Clove oil are energizing. Healing crystals may also connect to you. Citrine is terrific for protection and cleansing of your energy. Blue Lace Agate is one of best crystals for stress relief and lessening anxiety.
Listen to and Connect With Your Body
Get to know yourself. When you eat cheese how does your stomach respond? When you are in a stressful situation do your shoulder tense up? Also, answer some questions online to get to know yourself better? What makes you happy and what are your pet peeves?
Talk to Your Parents More
Communicate with your parents so they know what you need from them. Treat them kindly because they care about you and your well-being. If they are being too aloof or too much into your space let them know. They can’t read your mind and they are usually doing the best that they can with what they know.
Focus on Support Systems for a Brighter Future
Whatever you decide to do with your future whether it be college, trade school, travel, or the workforce; find somewhere that supports you as much as possible. If you are high anxiety working in a fast-paced restaurant will most likely cause more stress. If you are prone to depression working in an old folk home where people often pass away may not be the best idea. If you have despised schooling so far try a competency-based school where they teach non-traditionally.
Therapy is not the Taboo it Used to Be
Even if you just need someone to talk to or to help you navigate friendships or school. A therapist can benefit anyone as long as you are open to receiving it.
Keep Trying Various Self-Care Remedies
Always keep in mind that some of these may work and some may not. Everyone is different so don’t be discouraged if one method doesn’t work for you.. Find what you connect with and use it to improve the way you live. Always try to see the positive even when it may not be in plain sight. Surround yourself with loving, supportive people. Forgive yourself and remember that everything will be okay.
Comment below if you have any questions for me about my article, my journey, or anything else. What methods help you keep anxiety at bay?
By: Anaís Torres, Anxiety In Teens Contributor