Just as our physical health changes as we get older and go through certain circumstances, our mental health can also change. With that being said, various impactful life events, such as divorce, death of a loved one, diagnosis of a chronic illness, or loss of a job, can have a drastic impact on our mental well-being, causing various mental issues.
Anxiety is a normal reaction to life stressors. Its mild form is beneficial as it prepares us to deal with threats. However, anxiety disorder, which is one of the most common mental health problems, can be problematic.
Let’s discuss anxiety disorder, its treatment, and some beneficial tips for caring for your mental health.
Anxiety Disorder and Its Treatment
Anxiety disorder is one of the most common health conditions, affecting around 40 million people in the US. It is a complex response to perceived or real threats, causing physical, cognitive, and behavioral changes.
Anxiety exhibit symptoms like restlessness, increased irritability, uncontrolled feeling of worry, difficulty concentrating, and sleep problems. Like any other health problem, an anxiety disorder also requires treatment.
Your holistic healthcare provider can conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the underlying cause of your anxiety and tailor a treatment plan that works for you. The treatment plan may consist of medications, psychotherapy, or both.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy involves various approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy, which help the person deal with their emotional response to illness. Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches individuals with anxiety to recognize and modify various thought patterns or behaviors that link to troublesome feelings. On the other hand, exposure therapy deals with fears behind anxiety disorder.
Medications
Unfortunately, medications cannot cure anxiety disorders; however, they can improve the symptoms and help individuals function better. Medications that can help improve symptoms of anxiety disorders include anti-anxiety medications, such as antidepressants, beta-blockers, and benzodiazepines. However, benzodiazepines are only prescribed for short-term use, i.e., for anxiety when flying or medical procedures like MRI.
Tips for Caring for Mental Health
Here are some beneficial tips you can follow to care for your mental health.
Be Patient with Yourself During Difficult Times
Understand that nobody is perfect, and anyone can make mistakes or face difficult moments in life. So, during your difficult times, give yourself some time to heal and treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would extend to a friend facing a similar situation. It’s also recommended to avoid self-criticism and negative self-talk.
Get Regular Exercise
Regular exercise or physical activities have numerous mental and emotional benefits. Aim to walk, run, or engage in other physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day and make it a regular part of your routine.
Engage in Relaxing Activities
Explore different relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or muscle relaxation exercises, and incorporate them into your life to tame your stress and improve your mental health. It is recommended to schedule regular times for these and other healthy activities that you enjoy.
Practice Gratitude
Practicing gratitude is a powerful way to enhance your mental and emotional well-being. It involves focusing on the positive aspects of your life and appreciating them even in the middle of the challenges.
Dedicate a notebook or journal to regularly write down things that you are grateful for, take time to express your gratitude to others, and count your blessings.
Set Goals and Priorities
Setting goals and priorities is crucial to help you stay focused, motivated, and organized. Decide every night what you must get done the next morning and what can wait. Also, learn to say “no” to things that make you feel uncomfortable or give you stress.
Set realistic goals and stay committed to them. It’s advisable to eliminate goals that you find are no longer relevant or achievable.
Stay Connected
Always reach out to your family members or friends who can provide you emotional support and practical help during your difficult times. This will help you combat feelings of loneliness, reducing the risk of mental health issues.
Quit Unhealthy Habits
Unhealthy habits can contribute to or exacerbate mental health issues. Therefore, consider quitting unhealthy habits like excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, drug abuse, poor diet, excessive screen time, excessive caffeine intake, and procrastination.
Anxiety Treatment at Abundance Health Care
If you think you or your loved one is suffering from a mental health disorder or mental distress, and you are seeking a lasting solution, look no further than Abundance Health Care. Our professionals are here to assess your mental health problem and devise an appropriate treatment plan so that you can live a happy and healthy life.
To schedule a one-on-one consultation with one of our professionals, give us a call at (720)8690547 or fill out our easy-to-use appointment request form.
