Student Assistance Program » Dealing with ANXIETY?

Dealing with ANXIETY?

Anxiety is your body's natural response to stress. It's a feeling of fear or apprehension about what's to come. 
Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by the following problems:
 
Feeling nervous, anxious, or on edge?
Not being able to stop or control worrying?
Worrying too much about different things?
Having trouble relaxing?
Being so restless it's hard to sit still?
Become easily annoyed or irritable?
Feeling afraid as if something awful was about to happen?
 
How many times did you say YES?
Each of the above questions can be an indicator of anxiety.  If you feel that anxiety may be a problem for you, check out some ideas to reduce the anxiety in your life.
 
 
 
 

Try these when you're feeling anxious or stressed:

  • Take a time-out. Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head.
  • Eat well-balanced meals. Do not skip any meals. Do keep healthful, energy-boosting snacks on hand.
  • Limit caffeine, which can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks.
  • Get enough sleep. When stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest.
  • Exercise daily to help you feel good and maintain your health. Check out the fitness tips below.
  • Take deep breaths. Inhale and exhale slowly.
  • Count to 10 slowly. Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary.
  • Do your best. Instead of aiming for perfection, which isn't possible, be proud of however close you get.
  • Accept that you cannot control everything. Put your stress in perspective: Is it really as bad as you think?
  • Welcome humor. A good laugh goes a long way.
  • Maintain a positive attitude. Make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
  • Get involved. Volunteer or find another way to be active in your community, which creates a support network and gives you a break from everyday stress.
  • Learn what triggers your anxiety. Is it work, family, school, or something else you can identify? Write in a journal when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern.
  • Talk to someone. Tell friends and family you’re feeling overwhelmed, and let them know how they can help you. Talk to a school counselor, physician, or therapist for professional advice.
NJ Hope and Healing:  https://www.mhanj.org/njhope/