Share

7 tips to manage your anxiety

accreditation

A little bit of stress can motivate you, but too much might cause an anxiety disorder that can prevent you from living your life to the fullest.

Anxiety disorders are often misunderstood – many people think that you can simply overcome the symptoms by willpower. While it's important to seek professional treatment, it's also important to adapt your lifestyle.

If you feel anxious on a daily basis, try making changes to your lifestyle to manage anxiety on your own.

1. Move more

Exercise regularly to release the body's endorphins, our natural feel-good chemicals. Set a goal of 30 minutes at least five days of the week.

Woman running

2. Get decent shuteye

Be sure to get enough sleep, typically between seven and eight hours every night.

woman sleeping

3. Keep a clear mind

During waking hours, take short breaks from whatever stresses you out – meditation and listening to music are great ways to clear your head.

woman meditating on office desk

4. Adapt your diet

Eat healthy and don't skip meals. Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen anxiety and trigger panic attacks.

woman eating healthy at her desk

5. Seek help

If adjustments to your routine don't lessen your anxiety, talk to your doctor, especially if anxiety or depression runs in your family. You could have an anxiety disorder.

consulting doctor

6. Monitor your feelings

Keep a symptom diary and be on alert for the warning signs of an anxiety disorder.

Possible anxiety disorder symptoms include:

  • Constant worry
  • Avoiding social situations
  • Panic attacks
  • Nightmares

woman writing in journal

7. Find the best treatment for you

If you're diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, stay positive. There are many treatments available, such as cognitive behavioural therapy to help you change your thought patterns. Also, there are other types of therapy, medication, and simple adjustments to your daily routine.

Most important is finding a therapist you're comfortable working with and who's experienced in treating anxiety disorders.

woman consulting her therapist

Image credits: iStock 

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE