Living with Anxiety: Tools and Insights from My Journey
My first panic attack came when I was 11 years old. Back then, I had no idea what was happening, but I remember not being able to stop shaking, almost like I was freezing cold. It lasted for a few hours, and then it didn’t happen again until much later in my life.
I won’t hesitate to say that my life is pretty much picture-perfect. I have a five-month-pregnant wife, two golden retrievers, an awesome job with co-workers that I love, and a pretty great family. I have been in therapy consistently for two years and have extensively researched medical solutions with my psychiatrist. Basically, in my mind, I have been doing everything the right way, and yet there are still some days when my anxiety takes over.
Anxiety and depression aren’t constant feelings for me. I can be having a great day, and suddenly, it’s like a light switch gets flipped, and the emotions and thoughts begin to flood in. It’s frightening, but over the years, I have found a few things that make the panic subside.
As someone with anxiety, I prefer not to take medications that could potentially make me feel like I’m not in total control. Here are some things I do when my body and mind start to feel anxiety coming on:
Puzzles
Crosswords
Word Searches
These activities allow me to focus on something that challenges my brain, which helps me detach from my intrusive thoughts. I have a plethora of physical crossword books, and the ability to open an app on my phone allows me to find relief in any situation.
One of my biggest lifelines is my weighted blanket. I didn’t put much faith in it when I purchased it because, honestly, it seemed like it was too good to be true. Will it completely stop the physical elements of a panic attack? Not 100%, but in my experience, about 90% of my body does relax when I have it available.
We know that anxiety and panic attacks aren’t on any sort of schedule, so I always make sure to have my “travel kit” with me whenever I leave the comfort of my home. I keep crossword books, a puzzle, and a spare weighted blanket stowed away in my car, so I never have to worry about it.
I used to think that coping skills alone could help me, but it’s all a game of balance. You have to find comfort in talking to someone when you’re experiencing these emotions. It doesn’t have to be a deep conversation—just letting a friend, loved one, or significant other know that you’re feeling a little on edge can help.
It’s easy to let these feelings consume you, but you don’t have to accept it. I’ve been putting in the work for years and know that even I have more things to overcome with the help of my support system.
Remind yourself: it’s more common to have anxiety and depression than to not. You’re among the norm; we’re all in it together.
Your Health offers mental health services for you in all capacities. Reach out for more information!
Resources I Recommend:
Cross Word | Sudoku | Wordsearch