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There are many reasons for people to be anxious these days – general threats to safety, for instance, or the fear of losing one's job. Obviously, not all these reasons are something that can easily be changed. A little anxiety is good, though. For example, your being anxious before a job interview makes you prepare a bit more carefully, and think about what to say.
Thing is, anxiety can take on a life of its own, triggering your “fight or flee” response (or “flight or flight”, however you want to call it). It isn't just once, though – the response is triggered constantly throughout the day, and you feel as though trouble's around every corner. This chronic worrying and tension is what's known as Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
How do you deal with this intrusive kind of anxiety, and keep it from wreaking havoc on your day-to-day life?
1. Understand your worrying. Thinking about what-if situations actually won't get you anywhere. The trigger may be external, but it's your inner dialogue that encourages your worry. Practice taking a different tack whenever that happens.
For example, instead of letting yourself come up with worst-case scenarios and then fretting over them, ask yourself why you'd think of that? Chances are, that was an illogical notion, and is seriously unlikely to happen.
2. Form connections. There is strength in numbers, and nowhere is this more true than in dealing with anxiety; the more connected you are with others; the less vulnerable you feel. One problem, though, is that GAD can lead to relationship problems because of what you need from said relationships.
Essentially, you just need a few good friends whom you can count on to be your support system, to chat with you, and generally be there for you.
3. Practice relaxation. Deep breathing and other relaxation exercises help you feel less tense. Yoga is a good way to work off tension; mindfulness training is another. You have several options, really. It's impossible to be relaxed and anxious at the same time, so just find something that works for you to stay relaxed more often than you are tense.
Thing is, anxiety can take on a life of its own, triggering your “fight or flee” response (or “flight or flight”, however you want to call it). It isn't just once, though – the response is triggered constantly throughout the day, and you feel as though trouble's around every corner. This chronic worrying and tension is what's known as Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
How do you deal with this intrusive kind of anxiety, and keep it from wreaking havoc on your day-to-day life?
1. Understand your worrying. Thinking about what-if situations actually won't get you anywhere. The trigger may be external, but it's your inner dialogue that encourages your worry. Practice taking a different tack whenever that happens.
For example, instead of letting yourself come up with worst-case scenarios and then fretting over them, ask yourself why you'd think of that? Chances are, that was an illogical notion, and is seriously unlikely to happen.
2. Form connections. There is strength in numbers, and nowhere is this more true than in dealing with anxiety; the more connected you are with others; the less vulnerable you feel. One problem, though, is that GAD can lead to relationship problems because of what you need from said relationships.
Essentially, you just need a few good friends whom you can count on to be your support system, to chat with you, and generally be there for you.
3. Practice relaxation. Deep breathing and other relaxation exercises help you feel less tense. Yoga is a good way to work off tension; mindfulness training is another. You have several options, really. It's impossible to be relaxed and anxious at the same time, so just find something that works for you to stay relaxed more often than you are tense.
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