We challenged our readers to answer this very question.
Read below to see the top answers! And try some of these ideas out for yourself - you might be surprised just how many work!
- Take a break. Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage or learn relaxation techniques. Take the time out to clear your head
- Eat well-balanced meals. Do not skip any meals. Do keep healthful, energy-boosting snacks on hand.
- Consider limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption, as these can exacerbate feelings of anxiety while also triggering panic attacks.
- Get enough sleep. When stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest.
- Exercise daily to help you relax, exercise (even just a short walk!) is an incredible stress reliever.
- Take deep breaths. Inhale and exhale slowly.
- Count to 10 slowly. Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary.
- Do your best. Aiming for perfection is unrealistic, so be proud of however close you get to it.
- Accept that you can't control everything. Put your stress in perspective: Is it really as bad as you think?
- Humor can go a long way. Don't be afraid to laugh
- Maintain a positive attitude. Make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
- Get involved. Join some groups and find other ways to help out that are related to your interests. This will not only give you a chance to get involved in something meaningful, but will also allow you the opportunity to make new friends.
- Keep a journal. Keeping track of your anxiety triggers can help to identify what may cause the feelings, and also how you are able to manage those challenges.
- Talk to someone. Let friends and family know you are feeling overwhelmed so they can try to be as helpful as possible. Talk to a physician or therapist for advice on what other steps you may want to take, like therapy.
