With my parents at my Blount Freshman Orientation at Alabama 04
I never really dealt with anxiety until I went to college, up until that point I really felt pretty comfortable in my own skin. I think it has to do with the small town I grew up in and the tight knit family unit that I had with tons of support. When I went to college I just don't think I was aware how different things would be - lots of change all at once.
My anxiety didn't really start until around my sophomore year of college. I had gained more than the freshman 15 and was just starting to feel a little lost - there was no real routine to my life. I had my first panic attack at the grocery store in Tuscaloosa - I remember calling my mom in a panic because I couldn't breathe in the pasta aisle. It was awful and I went through several months of dealing with anxiety on a daily basis.
I don't have nearly as much anxiety in my life these days as I did then and I think it has so much to do with the structure of my life and learning to deal with those anxious feelings.
Looking back I can pinpoint the different triggers for my anxiety and why I was feeling that way at that point in my life. I am absolutely no Doctor but I thought I would give you my tips on how I deal if I feel a little anxiety coming on. I know that I am not alone in dealing with anxiety and think it is so important to share.
My Tips on Dealing with Anxiety
Exercise - Working out for even just thirty minutes, 3 times a week will change your outlook on anything. If I am ever feeling just a little bit anxious, I go for a run - unplug and listen to my music and I can physically feel myself relax. It is not just good for you physically but huge for you mentally.
Get Out of Your Head - the minute I start to feel a panic attack coming on my initial reaction is to freak out and this just fuels the panic. Take a minute and breathe. Call someone and talk to them about how you are feeling. Watch a television show or read a book - really anything that will get you out of your own head.
Get Enough Sleep - Lack of sleep can definitely contribute to stress and anxiety. Make sure that you are getting your 8 hours a night.
Plan your Life - Plan your day, your month, your year. Buy a planner that you love and write it all down. That feeling of control really helps with my anxiety. I find that having a routine and a schedule is so helpful. Plan ahead - this leaves little room for anxiety about upcoming events.
Spiritual Life - Whether this is going to church on Sunday or spending an hour meditating once a week - find that balance that is right for you. You will feel so much better after I swear.
Spend time with Friends and Family - Go to the movies, hang out in the park, do something fun. It always helps to be around your favorite people.
Eat Right - Putting good nutrients into your body is important for your mental and physical health. Don't drink too much - being hungover is a recipe for an anxiety attack. Studies have linked Vitamin B with good mental health and Omega 3s with reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Getting enough Vitamin D is also linked to reducing anxiety.
I really hope that these tips help - please let me know if y'all enjoy these types of posts!
Thank you so much for reading!
