Face your fear if you can
If you always avoid situations that scare you, you might stop doing things you want or need to do. And you won’t be able to test out whether the situation is always as bad as you expect, so you miss the chance to work out how to manage your fears and reduce your anxiety. Anxiety problems tend to increase if you get into this pattern.
Know yourself
Try to learn more about your fear or anxiety. Keep a record of when it happens and what happens. You can try setting yourself small, achievable goals to face your fears. You could carry with you a list of things that help at times when you are likely to become frightened or anxious.
Relax
Learning relaxation techniques can help you with the mental and physical feelings of fear. It can help just to drop your shoulders and breathe deeply. Or imagine yourself in a relaxing place.
Exercise
Increase the amount of exercise you take. This can trigger brain chemicals that improve your mood. Exercise needs concentration, and this can take your mind off fear and anxiety.
Healthy eating
Eat lots of fruit and vegetables and try to avoid too much sugar. Resulting dips in your blood sugar can give you anxious feelings. Try to avoid drinking too much tea or coffee as caffeine can increase anxiety levels.
Avoid alcohol or drink in moderation
It’s very common for people to drink when they feel nervous. Some people call alcohol ‘dutch courage’. But the after-effects of alcohol can make you feel even more afraid or anxious.
Complementary therapies
Some people find complementary therapies help, like massage or herbal products.
Faith/spirituality
If you are religious or spiritual, this can give you a way of feeling connected to something bigger than yourself. It can provide a way of coping with everyday stress and church and other faith groups can be a valuable support network.
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