Ghouls, Goblins, Ghosts, Oh My!! How to Manage Stress and Anxiety?
With the spooky season upon us, it is important to not only acknowledge but also to manage stress and anxiety effectively. Too many times, we encounter a problem or situation and choose to ignore it because we believe that ignoring a problem or pretending there are no issues is better than working through it. But learning coping mechanisms for anxiety can help us stay calm and grounded—even when life gets spooky.
Here are some simple anxiety management techniques:
- Take a deep calming breath.
- Acknowledge the situation.
- Speak positive affirmations!
- Find your coping mechanism.
1. Take a Deep Calming Breath
This is advice many mental health workers and psychologists give to their patients. Deep breathing exercises for stress help refocus your attention to something that you can immediately control. Try squeezing your fist for five seconds and then releasing. Doing this repeatedly can help calm an anxiety attack and ground you in the present.
2. Acknowledge the Situation
Acknowledge that something is wrong and there is something bothering you. This does not mean that the problem is immediately solved, but by acknowledging your emotions, you begin to understand the source of your anxiety. If you have calmed down and you feel you have the energy and mental capacity to tackle the situation head on, then do so. Just know that you do not have to search for an immediate resolution.
3. Speak Positive Affirmations
In an effort to refocus or retrain your mind to bypass negative thoughts, speak positive affirmations! Speaking them aloud resets your positive intentions and refocuses your attention on what you can control instead of what’s going wrong. It always seems to be easier said than done, but it’s important to try. You won’t be able to get it every time, but at least you’re putting in a valid effort!
4. Find Your Coping Mechanism
Coping mechanisms work for people in different ways; finding a way to relieve your anxiety or stress is the key! Whether it’s doing yoga, lighting incense, deep breathing exercises, or talking to a friend, allow yourself the opportunity to get out of a negative mental state rather than let it consume your thoughts. Find out what immediately calms you and go to your happy place!
Conclusion
These are just some tips and ideas on how to navigate through tough situations! Ultimately, the main thing to remember is that it is okay to feel how you are feeling. Remember that it’s not the end of the world. Breathe in, breathe out, and refocus your energy into positive forms of releasing tension.
For more helpful strategies on dealing with anxiety, especially from one parent to another, visit Parent to Parent: Test Anxiety by My Learning Tools.