To the person who suffers from anxiety, the term “mild” may seem like a misnomer. Anxiety attacks or feelings of anxiousness are rarely mild to the sufferer, but there is a clinical place for the term. The term “mild” does not intend to lessen the prevalence of this condition, but rather to define the level of distress it causes.
Mild anxiety is one of many disorders that fall into the classification of “anxiety disorders.” Most individuals who fall into the category of having mild anxiety struggle with nervousness but don’t have a fully functioning anxiety disorder. Most of their anxious feelings can be tied to real issues that they have to deal with. This is very different from generalized anxiety disorder, in which an individual feels extremely worried or nervous about things even when there is little or no reason for worry.
So, what if you have mild anxiety? How do you cope with it? Consider the following strategies that have been tried and proven by mild anxiety sufferers and health professionals.
Talk to Yourself
When you begin to worry, ask yourself if it is a real problem. Is it something you are truly experiencing or is it a perceived issue?
- Remind yourself that you aren’t the only person who has experienced these struggles.
- Remember that you have gotten through these circumstances before and came out unscathed.
- Ask yourself if it is a problem that you can somehow solve.
- Ask yourself if your current thoughts are helping to alleviate or contribute to your anxiety.
- Keep a mental note of triggers (or write them down) that cause you to feel nervous or stressed. Try to avoid these or find ways to approach them differently.
Coping With Others
There are many people in our lives who are available to help us when we need it. Sometimes they don’t know we need help until we tell them. Let them help you!
- Ask friends and family for help. They could take on things that are overwhelming you or can be with you in situations that make you nervous.
- Talk with others about your feelings. They may even have some helpful advice.
Lifestyle Strategies
- Exercise
- Eat a balanced diet
- Consider ruling out food allergies (these can contribute to feelings of anxiety and nervousness)
- Spend time outdoors
Many of these coping strategies can help to lessen your nervousness. By taking control of your feelings now, you may be able to prevent yourself from walking through the door to an anxiety disorder.