Do you often feel nervous or anxious? Do you frequently experience a sense of fear, insecurity, and apprehension at the thought of possible danger? You may be suffering from an anxiety disorder, like 8.2 million people in the UK. For some people this disorder is benign to does not stop them from leading a normal life. For others, however, the generalized anxiety disorder is so severe that it can be incapacitating on a daily basis. Either way, anxiety can be controlled.

1. Avoid stimulating drinks

First of all, it is advisable to avoid coffee and alcohol. These drinks stimulate the nervous system, alter certain self-regulatory functions of the body, increase serotonin levels, and speed up the heart rate. This state of hyperactivity heightens the risk of anxiety attacks.

Keep in mind that similar effects can occur with certain drugs and medications, such as cannabis, which can increase the heart rate and induce anxiety.

2. Drink water

Secondly, it is advised to drink plenty of water. Drinking water is essential for a number of reasons, one of which being anxiety relief. Dehydration potentially causes heart palpitations and may induce a sense of panic.

If you feel anxiety is getting the better of you, slowly drink a glass of water as you relax.

3. Write down your fears

Expressing your fears helps you to better identify and control them. Do you sometimes feel nervous or apprehensive but don’t really know why? Taking the time to identify the root of your fears is the first step in addressing your anxiety. Once you have identified the causes, write them down on a piece of paper. Remember to include your impressions and feelings as well. Even if the causes of your tensions will not really have disappeared, this exercise will have a cleansing effect on your mind.

Following this exercise, you can delve deeper into considering concrete solutions that will address the issues you have identified.

4. Confide in someone

Lastly, talking to someone you trust can be a good way of venting your anxiety. This is a good option if you would rather voice your concerns rather than write them down, or if self-reflection isn’t good enough for you.

Besides helping you articulate your concerns, these talks may also provide you with a new perspective. This type of dialogue is useful not only in helping you take a step back but also in exploring alternatives that you may not have thought of on your own.

This person you trust may be a friend, a family member, or a health care professional. This person will provide you with a more formal approach and will use the tools tailored to your situation in order to guide you towards the resolution of your anxiety while remaining truly neutral. Consider consulting a psychotherapist such as this one, who offers anxiety therapy with a completely tailor-made methodology. With the help of his customized coaching, you will be able to work in-depth and efficiently tackle your anxiety disorders.

Applying these practical tips on a daily basis will not however solve your anxiety disorder overnight. Patience, perseverance, and listening to your needs will be needed. Should it prove necessary, do not hesitate to ask for the assistance of a professional.