Anxiety is a prevalent issue in American society. Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health issues and are treated by millions of Americans every year. But even if you do not have anxiety that rises to the level of a diagnosable disorder, anxiety may still be interfering with your quality of life. Learning to manage anxiety symptoms is something anyone can do.
The first step is to learn the signs of anxiety. Equipped with this knowledge, you can use various strategies for managing anxiety to provide symptom relief. And, of course, if your anxiety is severe, you can access high-quality mental health treatment through a provider like Evoke Wellness.
Learn more about Evoke’s anxiety treatment program by calling 866.931.6429.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety
When it comes to anxiety, the signs and symptoms largely overlap. The most common form of anxiety disorder is called generalized anxiety disorder. Since its symptoms are similar to the anxiety people experience most in life, they will be the primary focus of this section. However, it is essential to note that other anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, have distinct symptoms that look different from how generalized anxiety disorder presents.
A few of the most common symptoms of anxiety include:
- Fatigue
- Excessive worry
- A general feeling of being on edge or wound up
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Headaches
- Sleep issues
These signs of anxiety can pop up in life generally based on circumstances, environmental pressures, and relationship issues. They rise to a diagnosable disorder when they consistently interfere with daily life and feel like they cannot be controlled. No matter the level of anxiety someone is experiencing, managing anxiety symptoms is possible, at least to an extent. For severe cases of anxiety, formal treatment is typically recommended alongside doing what you can on your own.
Managing Anxiety Symptoms Effectively
Anxiety is often unpredictable. It can pop up quickly and often spiral out of control if not managed effectively. The good news is that managing anxiety is possible. Here are five ways to manage your anxiety symptoms to achieve a more balanced, productive life:
1. Challenge Your Thoughts
Anxiety is one of those feelings that can quickly worsen and ruin your mood, if not your entire day. When anxiety starts setting in, it can be helpful to challenge the thoughts that are driving the anxiety. Ask yourself if your fear is based on reality and see if there’s an opportunity to correct irrational thoughts.
2. Breathing Exercises
A short deep breathing exercise can be a great way to interrupt rising anxiety. Something as simple as breathing in for four counts, followed by breathing out for four counts for a few minutes, can be constructive.
3. Aromatherapy
Certain scents, whether in the form of candles or essential oils, can be calming and relieve anxiety symptoms.
4. Light Exercise
Getting active is a great way to disrupt rising anxiety. Go for a short walk or do a quick yoga routine to get your body moving and help alleviate anxiety symptoms.
5. Journal
Writing out your thoughts can make what you are worried about less intimidating. This could be formal, daily journaling, or in the spur of the moment when you need it most.
Treatment can also help your anxiety, such as medication and therapy modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Evoke Can Help You Deal With Anxiety Symptoms
Do you feel like your anxiety symptoms are out of control? Are they impeding your ability to live a whole and happy life? Consider calling us at 866.931.6429 to learn more about formal treatment that can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety such as therapy or medication.
