How to Become Your Own Scientist
As mentioned in the article about the differences between clinical anxiety and regular worry, treatments for anxiety are commonly behavioral-based, meaning there are techniques and behaviors that you can do to help alleviate the symptoms.
Though taking the first step towards getting help can be scary and worrisome, it can help to look at it as exciting and hope-inspiring because you are giving yourself the chance to change your experience and improve your life.
Sometimes when we have lived a certain way for a really long time it’s hard to imagine things can be different. The truth is, you can change things, develop new habits, improve your health, relationships, etc. People do it all the time!
This is one reason why therapy can be important. Change can be difficult and scary, or at the very least, inconvenient. For those with clinical anxiety, it’s very important to have someone who is supporting you who understands what you’re going through and can help you navigate the way forward. A therapist will encourage you to try different techniques to alleviate your anxiety. In therapy, you will have a chance to talk about any of your life problems, including many of the things you worry about.
For example, if you have a panic disorder or another anxiety disorder, you can talk with your therapist about what your experience is like. A therapist will help support you by listening and helping you design new strategies for dealing with your symptoms. In therapy, you will be like your own scientist, experimenting with the help of a therapist until you find something that works for you.
People with Anxiety Report Certain Practices Help
A lot of research has gone in to investigating what practices help people deal with their anxiety. Some of the examples below are things I explore with the clients I see.
Explore each life domain.
Relationships family and interpersonal issues- do I belong to a community? Do I have a role?
Physical health, nutrition, and lifestyle. Do I take care of myself with proper rest, exercise, nutrition, and recreation? Am I always on the go or can I take time to relax and enjoy life?
Mental health, cognitive habits, beliefs, sense of self. Do I practice mindfulness? Gratitude? What do I believe about myself? Do I feel empowered in my life to make choices and changes?
Work or other domains. Am I productive? Creative? Active?
Values. What is important to me? Do I live consistently with my values?
Taking the first step towards gaining control back in your life can be scary, nerve-racking, and overwhelming. If you are suffering from symptoms of clinical anxiety, see a licensed professional. Yes, it is scary. Yes, it is hard work. And yes, it is worth taking the time and putting yourself first.
If you missed the previous article or need help determining whether your anxiety is clinical or it is just worry, read 3 Differences Between Clinical Anxiety and Regular Worry to determine the right steps or call us today.
Brian Abbott, LMSW, LMAC
Resolve - Counseling & Wellness
Prairie Village, KS