Coping mechanisms...

Talking about our problems is our greatest addiction.
Break the habit.
Talk about your joys.

— Unknown

Apparently there are four typical and automatic coping responses; fight (argue), flight (hide), freeze (disengage/paralysis) and appease (complain to others). If our “alarm system” is set to “high alert” it will go off even in relatively harmless situations; being at a party with people we don’t know, speaking in front of people, having to answer to your boss/parents. Gratitude and talking about our joys is certainly highly recommended. If this isn’t working, WebMD offers 10 expert backed suggestions to help relax and regain control of the mind:

1. Anxiety is a future-oriented state of mind, so stay in the present.
2. Relabel what’s happening - when fight or flight kicks in, tell yourself this is temporary and there is nothing I need to do in this moment.
3. Fact-check your thoughts - do not allow yourself to fixate on worst-case scenarios. Try saying “I’m nervous, but I’m prepared.” Or “Some things will go well and some may not.”
4. Breathe in and out - deep breathing will help to calm you down and re-centre your brain.
5. Follow the 3-3-3- rule - name three things you see, name three sounds you see, move three parts of your body. This will bring you back to the present moment.
6. Just do something - stand up, take a walk, throw away a piece of trash. Interrupt your train of thought to regain control of your thoughts.
7. Stand up straight - this will send a message to the body that it’s back in control.
8. Stay away from sugar - eating to much sugar can worsen anxious feelings. Drink a glass of water or eat protein. This slow energy will allow your body to recover.
9. Ask for a second opinion - call or text a family member or friend. Saying something out loud or writing fears down on paper can help bring clarity.
10. Watch a funny video - laughing is a great prescription for an anxious mind. Research has shown that laughing can help lower anxiety as much as exercise can.

Blessings,

Chatgirl