By: Jill Patano, LCPC
A certain amount of anxiety and/or worry is a normal part of human existence, but when it starts to interfere with daily functioning, there are steps you can take to manage it better.
- Become familiar with your thought patterns. Do you tend to be a black or white thinker, blow situations out of proportion or feel you’re always comparing yourself to others? These are examples of negative thought patterns and can contribute to anxious feelings.
- Challenge yourself! Write down your anxious thoughts and challenege yourself to come up with a differing viewpoint, or more realistic way of looking at the situation. Ask yourself what you would say to a friend in the same situation.
- You may have heard it before, but be kind to yourself. Many people find that they are better able to cope with anxiety and worry if they exercise, eat right and keep up with social relationships and supports.
- Don’t avoid! It may seem counterintuitive, but if you avoid the situation that is making you anxious it will only make it worse. Try to break things down into manageable tasks and work through anxiety inducing situations step-by-step if possible.
- Give yourself time. Anxious thought and behaviors probably took a while to become habit, so it can take a while to undo those habits. Remember to take note of your positive progress along the way!
About the Author
Jill Patano, LCPC is a therapist at our Edison Park location. Jill works with adults. Jill’s specialties include anxiety, OCD, panic and phobias, stress management, perfectionism, CBT, ERP, coping skills, and life transitions. If you are interested in working with Jill, send an email today!
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