What are some ways to contain really bad anxiety in public places without having to make it obvious or leave the room?

There are a few techniques that you could try to do that I have found helpful whenever I'm stricken with a bad anxiety attack in public. First, try to remember that having an anxiety is a disorder that afflicts many people, and if your suffering from an attack in public it's not the most important thing to try and worry what others think of you. Having said that, I do understand, however, that it's not a necessarily good thing to be out trying to complete tasks or be with friends and have an attack. If at all possible, try to take slow sips of something cold, like water. I would avoid alcohol or soda because you don't want to add caffeine into the mix or numb your senses. Calmly walk to a place that's less crowded than where you are or take a quick break to go outside. Take slow, deep breaths. If your close to your car, sit in it for a few moments, and turn on the radio to something light, or conversations that can get your mind off of the anxiety. Sometimes, it's helpful to get in a good amount of exercise before you go out. Doing physical activities can exert your mind and even help you concentrate and relax. When I am going to be out in social situations and I'm with friends, I sometimes will quietly tell the person I'm closest with that I feel anxious and that I need some space or to leave the current situation. In most cases, you're friend will react very empathetically and even go with you or make sure that you get what you need. It's like having a designated driver, but for anxiety. The person knows you may have an attack, and is prepared to help you if you do. I've found having someone else who knows about your anxiety to be invaluable. Try to give yourself some slack when it comes to public circumstances. There may be some events that you know might trigger an anxiety attack and it might be best to decline going if you're feeling a bit vulnerable already. Be mindful of your triggers. Sometimes it helps to make a list of some things that give you anxiety when your out.

Take a few deep breaths through your mouth, and try and clear your thoughts. Then focus on something in front of you and start noticing the details, distracting yourself.

Near a friend, always! Someone who tryly cares won't ask you questions, they will understand and comfort you. A friend was always there during my panick attacks, and they make it so much easier to go through it. Whenever you start feeling bad, grab a friend or someone who know and tell them exactly how you feel. Plus if it's someone you don't know that much, you can even build new friendships!

I often sing to myself (softly) to contain anxiety. I try to recall all the lyrics, and focusing on something helps me to calm myself.

I use day dreaming a lot and even more so, I use my music to help me escape the situation. If I don't want to be rude, I just think of a song in my head, rather than putting in my earphones.

Clench your muscles for 15 seconds and then relax. Repeat. AND BREATHE. Find a certain point in the room and focus on it. Don't take your eyes off of it.

Those who have bad anxiety often can't help but feel overwhelmed. However, if you limit the tasks assigned to that individual's role then you are allowing their minds to function without the worries of 'needing to be' or 'having to be' something that they feel that they are not. For instance, for those who suffer from social anxiety when in public places or especially social conversations, you are overwhelmed with 'what if' thoughts, your body does not obey your mind, your heart races, your palms sweat, your eyes feel as if they cannot focus, and body shifts positions as if getting comfortable is an impossible measure. And with all this happening, it is often hard to find to find the ways to make what is in your head sounds as good verbally. Limiting ones purpose in the conversation from having a successful and intelligent sounding conversation to having the goal of having a conversation that either lets the other person know that you are interested in what they have to say or leave the conversation knowing that you did your best to be a beneficial influence and a light in that other person's life. To whatever you change your goal to, know that simplicity is key and the feeling of content comes with being a beneficial influence in others live, but will always be a need you should first be for your own life.

Start focusing on your breathing process. 1.Breathe in slowly but deeply. Take 4 seconds to breathe in, feeling you stomach move in the process. 2Hold your breath for 7 seconds. 3.Breathe out as silently as you can manage, taking 8 seconds. Once you reach 8, you should have emptied your lungs of air. 4.Repeat as many times as you need, making sure to stick to the 4-7-8 pattern.

Breathe deeply, and focus on your own breathing. Let all the tension out as you exhale. Also, Meditation before getting in public place can help reduce your anxiety.

A way to contain bad anxiety is to take an object that has significant value and is positive. This can also help with public speaking.