Melbgirl399

Melbgirl399 t1_j9smypu wrote

It is really hard to think of what advice to give as a strategy I use may not be useful or appropriate for you. I have struggled with anxiety for a long time and still struggle. Anxiety is a normal but when it starts to impact your quality of life, it can be overwhelming.

Consider medication - I found it useful to take way the most intrusive aspects of anxiety and start to focus on self care strategies. I also use a counsellor regularly to check in and test my thinking/get new ideas on how manage particular events that are causing me anxiety.

Creating self care regime is important (frankly for everyone). Exercise, good food, regular contact with loved ones are standard. I also have little things I do like make sure I have shower every day, brush my teeth, air the bed, diffuse essential oils and do the dishes to give myself a sense of control. I am a big list writer - it helps to order my thoughts and stop things from being overwhelming.

The biggest lesson I have learned to be aware of my negative internal thoughts. I can be my harshest critic and I sometimes have to stop and reflect “would I say this to a friend? What would I say to my friend if they came to me with this concern? Will it matter tomorrow, next week or next year?. Everyone has anxiety a some time - it is part of growing to be a better person. No one has their shit together and you are enough.

Make sure you look after you

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