What to Do When Worry and Anxiety Loom
By Sandy Schroeder
Everybody worries, but some of us are quick to dismiss minor concerns and to manage larger ones. Where do you stand? Do you know when to worry about worrying, which means you know how to handle it.
Fleeting worries that come and go are common, but a constant worry that builds into nervousness can become a generalized anxiety disorder that needs treatment.
If you feel your worry has morphed into a more serious anxiety, you will want to see your doctor to find a therapist to help you sort everything out. According to Harvard Health, people who have a generalized anxiety disorder tend to be constantly agitated. They worry about their job, the future, daily tasks, anything and everything, and expect the worst.
Their bodies react to the worry with a dry mouth, upset stomach, rapid pulse, shaking, sweating and irritability. This physical agitation also increases their risk for heart attack or stroke.
Therapy, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy can help people with this disorder to see when they are overreacting to events and losing perspective with an overload of pessimism. Learning new ways to respond can help individuals to dial the anxiety back and gradually shape a more positive view.
As you work with your doctor and therapists, here are some stress-reducing tips to ease the anxiety and worry. See which ones might work for you.
- Use short walks throughout the day to let go of tension
- Create some chair exercises to do while you are sitting and working
- Activate your family room with small weights, exercise mats and a treadmill or stationary bike
Focus on Exercise
- Create a weekly exercise chart for you and your family
- Use daily tasks like gardening and cleaning to keep moving
- Choose exercises that you really enjoy like dancing, running or biking
- Reach out to friends and relatives to connect and support each other
- Use stretches and strength exercises a couple times a week
- Evaluate how much you sit every day and trim it back
Bring in Some New Ideas
- Consider adjustable computer platforms and under-the-desk pedaling devices
- Get new bikes for everybody in your family
- Get outside everyday on your patio or in your backyard
- Expand your sports and hobbies and include your family
- Try some movable meditations with long walks
- Upgrade backyard soccer, basketball or volleyball spots
If anxiety and worries persist, call your doctor and find a therapist to help you work through the issues.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Chula Vista, Calif.