Let's talk about anxiety.
I was fourteen when I experienced my first panic attack, and I am still managing the symptoms of this disorder nearly ten years later. Like many folks, my days can come in waves of ups and downs. At times I am hit hard with racing thoughts and dread. Other times I am my normal, chaotic self who likes to laugh and talk about cryptids to anyone who lets me.
The good news is with time comes experience. Throughout this adventure, I have adopted various coping mechanisms that have helped me when everything becomes too much. Feel free to incorporate the list below in your own routine!
And please keep in mind... this does not replace medical advice from a professional. I visit my own doctor every six months and take prescribed medication. These are simply meant to be small, stress-relieving activities. I encourage you to reach out to the appropriate professionals for help if you are struggling.
Drinking Coffee
I am the antithesis of a morning person, and one of the symptoms that hits me the hardest is exhaustion. To combat lumbering around like a zombie, coffee has become an essential tool for facing the hours ahead. Three scoops of Veranda Blend and a healthy splash of almond creamer is all it takes for instant serenity.
Gaming
That’s right, I am what the kids would call a gamer. Gaming has been in my blood since the tender age of five when I was leaping inside paintings in Super Mario 64. With the world as stressful as it is, I have started to favor games with little stakes involved. Animal Crossing, Dream Daddy, Gris, Journey, Mario Party, and Monster Prom are among my current favorites.
Bubble Baths
It’s not my dream scenario of a claw foot tub surrounded by candles, but it’ll do! For me, bubble baths help curb the over-stimulation that I experience in daily life. The dark, warm room helps dull outside noise while the bubbles are… well, they are a joyful aesthetic. Most of my baths are simple, but I do allow the occasional bath bomb to join the party when I am feeling particularly fancy.
Smash Book
If you are not familiar with a smash book, think journaling without boundaries. This is fairly new to my routine because the idea of starting one has terrified me for years (fun fact: perfectionism is another symptom I experience as an anxious person). Journaling in this manner strips away the expectations of tidy bullet lists and washi tape that matches your pen . It forces you to accept flaws and adapt to your mistakes. Don’t get me wrong, it is still a struggle. Nonetheless, I have found this process to be cathartic, and I encourage you to give it a shot if you find yourself in a creative slump.
Lofi & Chill
Anxiety can create a lot of brain noise when working in silence, so I turn to music as a focusing point. Lofi mixes are ideal because the lack of vocals prevents further distraction. Not to mention, most of these mixes feature awesome art that make me feel strangely nostalgic. I have included my personal playlist of lofi tunes (with a little City Pop sprinkled throughout) in case you need a starting point.
Check it out here: Lofi & Chill Playlist
Oil Diffuser
Aromatherapy is one of my favorite forms of unwinding after a particularly stressful day, and this little friend is the perfect alternative to candles. Nowadays, oil diffusers are easily found on the shelves of major stores or online. Here is a quick list of my favorite oils: lemon for headaches, lavender for calming, and peppermint for digestion. You can be as fancy (mine has pulsing lights) or simple as you want!
The important thing to remember is the symptoms of anxiety are temporary. Yes, it sometimes feels like the world is crumbling, but you got this! I hope this list inspires you to prioritize your mental well-being. Find the things that make you the happiest and cradle them close. Also, surround yourself with people who care. I have both blood family and found family that hold me accountable and help me when I am struggling. Now go out into the world and get your de-stress on!
Best wishes!
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