UNDERSTANDING ANXIETY: WHAT IT IS AND HOW TO COPE
Disclaimer: YGT team members are not healthcare professionals. The following tips for coping with anxiety were researched to help those in our community who may be experiencing anxiousness. If you have anxiety or believe to have an anxiety disorder please consult with your doctor or access the resources we have provided below.
WHAT IS ANXIETY?
Anxiety is a physical and psychological response to stress or fear. It is the cause of those intensive, excessive, and persistent worries about everyday life. Many of us have experienced anxiety before, and if experienced in small amounts, it can have positive outcomes. For example, if you experience a little anxiety before a test, you might feel more inclined to study for it. What many people don’t realize, though, is just how common severe anxiety is and just how negatively it impacts lives if not managed or treated. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), anxiety is the most common mental illness, affecting 40 million adults in the U.S.
As we all endure these times of uncertainty, many of us will experience anxiety—some of us for the first time. To support you as you continue to manage the many unknowns of today’s world, we are sharing three tips to help you cope with mild to moderate anxiety.
3 TIPS FOR COPING WITH ANXIETY
#1 GET ENOUGH SLEEP
Although this seems like a no-brainer, when we are busy and stressed getting enough sleep can be one of the most difficult tasks. However, according to the ADAA, going even one night without enough sleep can increase anxiety by 30%. To get yourself in a better nighttime routine we recommend limiting technology use at night and keeping your bedroom a work-free zone. The more you can create a physical separation from your daily responsibilities before bedtime, the easier it will be to relax.
#2 IMPROVE YOUR NUTRITION
What we put into our bodies largely impacts how we feel—both mentally and emotionally. Large intakes of sugar, caffeine, and carbohydrates can cause major fluctuations in our nervous system. We are by no means recommending that you give up all sweets and snacks. However, it is important that you find a healthy balance that works for you. It’s amazing how simply taking care of our bodies can be the first step in improving our overall well-being.
#3 GROUND YOURSELF IN YOUR WHY
Our team talks a lot about our “why”, and we strongly believe that everyone must have a central purpose in their life that helps them positively focus their energy. When you fill your day with purposeful activities that are in alignment with your core beliefs, it will be much easier to push away negative thoughts and constant unpleasant news updates that might be contributing to your feelings of anxiety. For many of us at YGT, our why is our family. As we have all tackled the challenges presented to us in the last few months, we have done our best to stay connected to our loved ones. We encourage you to identify the positive forces in your life and keep them at the center of everything you do as you seek to find balance in your new routines.
If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, consult with your doctor, or download the SafeUT App to speak virtually with a licensed professional.