Coping with Anxiety

Since I’ve been having an increase in the amount of anxiety attacks I’ve been having, I figured I would write about my coping skills and how I get through each episode. My anxiety toolbox includes:

• Cleaning/organizing my house
• Count my breathing
• Calling/texting an understanding friend/family member
• Coloring in an adult coloring book
• Listen to comedy that makes you laugh
• Listen to calming music, possibly from your childhood
• Taking Valium as prescribed
• Workout

These techniques are the main tools that I use when I’m having an anxiety attack. I do my best to take care of the anxiety without taking Valium, but I do take it if necessary. Many  of the anxiety solutions are just a distraction from the reason for your anxiety attack. These distractions simply give your mind a break so you can calm down. Most of the time, all I need is a moment and a little bit of help to calm down.