How can I overcome anxiety if I can't talk to a therapist or my own doctor?
307 Answers
Moderated by Anna Pavia, psicologa psicoterapeuta psychotherapist psychologist counselor
Updated: Jun 10, 2022
JustBreathe019
on
Mar 17, 2021
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There are many things that you can try but the main thing is find what works for you specifically. These are just suggestions, be open-minded to trying some and don't give up if you don't see results immediately. Anxiety is not a "quick fix", it is something you continuously work on and acknowledge. Don't ignore it, it's ok.
_Breathing exercises
_Meditation
_Mindfulness exercises
_Physical exercise (taking a walk, stretching...)
_Talking about it with someone you trust like a family member or close friend or a listener on 7 cups
_Writing down your anxieties- sometimes seeing it on paper helps you feel more in control
_Speaking positive words to yourself when you feel anxious
_Distraction- using things that you like to distract you like watching a movie, chatting with friends, listening to music
_Aromas- lavender is very calming an soothing, may a nice candle lit, quiet time
All these things are just suggestions, they are not cures or guaranteed to work but it is worth a try to see what suits you. Many people experience anxiety, you are not alone, there is a community here at 7 cups, there is support, patience and understanding here. We are all cheering you on!
Anonymous
on
Apr 7, 2021
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Everyone needs someone to talk to and sometimes it is hard to face the person and that is why we have these anonymous sites for you. You should feel safe and heard. The answer depends from person to person since there are different situations, but one way to cope with the anxiety is to try to figure out whats holding you back and finding a method you are feeling comfortable with to ignore the bad feelings. I am positive that your doctor or therapist will fully understand your situation and will help you through it. You are never on you own
airplantmom
on
Apr 23, 2021
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In my personal experience, doing things that allow you to reflect on your state of mind helps put my anxieties into perspective. For example, I like to listen to meditations to help ease my mind, especially at night. Similarly, I like to watching calming videos about anxiety to help me realize its common and many people are experiencing it as well. I also try to write things down that are in my mind just to let it out. This all helps me feel less overwhelmed in the moment. In terms of addressing the future, I try to recognize things that make me anxious to prepare myself and distance myself from my feelings if they are irrational.
Jenn20
on
Apr 28, 2021
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Hmm I think you should either talk to a trusted friend or family member or teacher. Or you could just rant to yourself and let the things in your mind come out and you can let it be free. You can also do an activity where you write out your thoughts and burn the pages so it shows those negative feelings are gone away. This will make you feel so much better since you'll feel at peace. Also writing things down of the work you need to get done so you aren't stressing last minute helps a lot. Take care of yourself by eating healthy foods and drinking water on time
SoShellie
on
Apr 29, 2021
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I would suggest trying out as many kinds of coping techniques as possible (not at the same time, of course). What works for one person might not work for another. And what works for one person on a given day might not work later that week. I alternate between deep breathing exercises, meditation, journaling, and coloring when I’m anxious. I keep things that help me deal with anxiety in one location at home so that they are easily accessible when I’m anxious. Having several options to choose from seems to help me a lot. Like a little anti-anxiety tool box.
IllanaB
on
Apr 29, 2021
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There are many alternative ways to combat anxiety. Anxiety is difficult to discuss, even with people like a therapist or doctor who you have a trusting relationship with. It evokes emotions such as fear, which often leads to the individual retracting rendering them unable to seek the help they need. Activities like yoga and meditation have been found to be very effective in this regard, although it does benefit the person experiencing the anxiety to verbalise what they are feeling. It is helpful to call a listener at 7Cups, who can provide an ear as well as come from a non-judgmental position.
Anonymous
on
May 26, 2021
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I do guided meditation daily on breathing technique especially Wim Hof and keep a journal on gratitude on daily basis i.e. Magic by Rhonda Byrne. Besides, I exercise like going for an hour long brisk walking, indoor cycling and carrying weights. Keeping positive thoughts also helps very much. Talking to a friend on what is causing the anxiety also helps. Positive affirmations, prayers, doing things that makes me happy are some of the things i do to keep my anxiety low such as playing guitar, listening to music, watching movies/ youtube, reading books, listening to podcasts and other activities. By practicing mindfulness, the anxiety level can be reduced and controlled.
Anonymous
on
May 29, 2021
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Deep breathing exercises. Close your eyes and listen to your self breathing. you will gain self awareness, and then you will command your muscles to relax, and imagine your body healing.
Also:
1. Avoid caffeine
Caffeine is well-known as an anxiety inducer. But for me, drinking coffee has become such a habit that I often forget how sensitive I am to it.
When I’m feeling anxious or I’m anticipating those feelings — like before I use public transportation — I always make a conscious decision to stop drinking caffeine. This goes for caffeinated soft drinks too.
2. Avoid alcohol
Feelings of anxiety can be so overwhelming that you might feel the urge to have a cocktail to help you relax.
Although this may work in the short term, alcohol actually changes the levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain, making your symptoms worse. In fact, you may feel more anxious after the alcohol wears off.
4. Use fragrance
Lavender is well known for its calming properties. Keep a small bottle of lavender oil on hand for the scent, for when you feel anxious thoughts brewing.
If you practice mindfulness or meditation, try smelling lavender during your practice. Over time, you’ll associate the feeling of relaxation with that scent, making it even more effective.
Shop for lavender oil.
5. Talk to someone who gets it
If your feelings of anxiety are making it hard to function, you should speak to a health professional. But talking to friends can also help. I have friends who have an anxiety disorder too. When I’m feeling really bad, I send them a message telling them how I’m feeling.
itsJT
on
May 30, 2021
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I don't think there's such a thing as "overcoming" your anxiety. From what I've gone through myself, it's about identifying your triggers and learning to cope with what's making you anxious. For example, I used to break down when I had to give speeches. I would shake constantly and often couldn't even get a single word out. I eventually learned that to "overcome" this—or make it less debilitating—I have to go through tons of preparation. I rehearse, rehearse, rehearse and often times memorise my speech to perfect my delivery. I think that's what anxiety's about: doing what you can to minimise the impact it has on your daily life, rather than completely erasing it from your life.
Anonymous
on
Jun 4, 2021
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Know your triggers. Know how to avoid them and if you can't avoid them, learn how to not react. start by writing your feelings out or practice saying them to yourself or your cat or someone you trust. speak to friends and family members. They are sure to give you warm support and advice. There are several other ways to overcome anxiety, such as engaging in a hobby or sport.If you are experiencing anxiety it is best to surround yourself with people you feel safe with. If there is no one you want to talk to, maybe try sites such as this, and refer to the guides and hotlines. Many times we feel more relieved once we say our problems out loud and reflect on their importance. Breathing is also what may help, when you feel overwhelmed try and take a few deep breaths to calm yourself.
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