4 Ways To Stop Anxious Thoughts In Their Tracks
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues in the world, but that doesn’t mean everyone dealing with it has to be at the mercy of their anxious thoughts every day.
In truth, anxiety impacts people differently. Some deal with more severe cases than others, and some are able to manage their symptoms better than others.
The good news? Anxiety typically is manageable, with the right treatment. But, it’s not always easy to deal with it on your own or overcome anxious thoughts without some guidance.
Thankfully, there are some things you can do right away to stop anxious thoughts in their tracks, so you can take control and finally reach out for the help you deserve. Let’s cover a few of those tips and tricks.
1. Find Ways to Calm Your Body
Anxiety is a mental health issue, but it can have a physical impact on you, as well. Alternatively, how you respond to anxious thoughts, physically, can calm your mental state.
If you feel intrusive, worrying thoughts creeping in, pause what you’re doing. Close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths. Try some yoga poses or slow stretches. Give yourself a shoulder or neck massage, or roll your foot over a tennis ball.
These simple relaxing strategies can help to calm your mind and body, and make those anxious thoughts disappear for the time being.
2. Practice Mindfulness
Another way to “slow down” your thoughts is to be mindful when they start to take over. Mindfulness is the practice of staying in the present. It’s a “practice” because it can take some time before you start to feel comfortable with it. But, once you do, it can be a powerful tool to fight back against anxiety.
Mindfulness can be done as part of a daily routine or whenever you’re feeling especially anxious. Close your eyes, take a few slow breaths, and focus on what you’re feeling in that moment. Listen to the sounds around you, and note each sensation. Thoughts will continue to come, but let them pass by like clouds you can’t grab onto.
3. Get the Thoughts Out of Your System
Anxious thoughts are often made worse by keeping them inside. The more you try to “hide” them away, the more intense they’re likely to become.
Consider calling a trusted friend or family member and talking about your thoughts and feelings. They want to support you and be there, so don’t be afraid to open up.
If you don’t want to talk to anyone, try writing down what you’re feeling in a journal. Sometimes, something as simple as getting your thoughts on paper can make a big difference.
4. Get to the Root
Again, anxiety is often very manageable. But it’s not so easy when you’re trying to calm those thoughts on your own.
The best way to manage anxious thoughts long-term is by getting to the root cause of your anxiety. Thankfully, you don’t have to do that on your own.
Consider reaching out for professional help to fight back against anxiety symptoms. A therapist will not only help you discover that underlying cause, but they’ll work with you to develop the necessary skills to put a stop to anxious thoughts.
Is it easy to “dig deeper” and discover where your anxiety stems from? No. That’s why you shouldn’t have to do it on your own.
If you’re ready to start fighting back against anxious thoughts, feel free to contact us to set up an appointment for therapy for anxiety. Together, we’ll work on putting you back in control of your thoughts, so you can enjoy the freedom of peace without worry.
