How Do I Get Over Anxiety
In my opinion, living without anxiety is not possible. Anxiety is a reactive state caused by fear, where the mind goes into survival mode. Therefore, this is something we all experience at some point or the other. It is only the varying degrees of the state that classify it as a mental health issue or a natural reaction. Going for an examination? Meeting the bf/gf’s parents for the first time? Getting your manuscript read by a publisher? Anxiety is bound to show up. For some people, it is a way of life (I myself am struggling with it) to be constantly anxious to the point where one needs help. However, there are ways to deal with it and be able to live in harmony despite the anxiety. So while there may or may never be a proper enlightening moment when you feel like you’re completely rid of it, you would know when you’re in a much better situation than before. The first step to overcoming anxiety (as I have learnt) is to accept it and love yourself irrespective. The first reaction we usually have to a negative emotion or reaction is to beat ourselves up and conclude that there’s something wrong with us. Work towards undoing that. Accept yourself as you are, and promise your soul that you won’t give up on yourself. Next, don’t be afraid to ask for help. A lot of cultures have a social stigma against getting therapy or counselling for better mental health. This stops so many people from getting help and thereby ensuring they continue to live in their misery. But it is important to realise that sometimes, all it takes to begin the healing process, is a little push. A few things that are working for me currently, are meditation (I don’t have any wow moments of realisation with it, but it does calm my mind down, and for starters, that’s great!) - I do 10 minutes guided meditations through an app (there are so many out there!) and also something known as written meditation (find an affirmation that resonates with you, or make your own and write it down, for about 10 mins a day). I also have been seeking therapy, through Strategic Intervention, which is also helping, since there is someone to talk to. And, I pursue my hobbies. Art, craft, singing, dancing, running, whatever it is, just do it, and do it with all your heart and soul. Mine are Drawing, Singing, Reading and Henna designing.