Anxiety is a bitch!

In Blog by Ben Shills

Anxiety is an absolute bitch.

Anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be mild or severe. Everyone has feelings of anxiety at some point in their life – for example, you may feel worried and anxious about sitting an exam, or having a medical test or job interview.

I have found that anxiety can be the worst thing in the world. It can cripple everything from your job to your relationship and everything in between.

The reason for this post to highlight how big of an issue anxiety is and that others suffering with it don’t have to keep it confined to themselves.

I am starting a new job today and in previous months this would of been thrilling, exciting and I couldn’t wait to get started. Due to my anxiety today has my stomach doing cartwheels and the fear is real and you really to start to question yourself. Anxiety can cripple your life, I’ve found myself in situations where even entering a shop or paying for something on my own can be too much for me to deal with.

Im using this post to share the issues that I’ve experienced in my life, in the hope that others will see this and share their own. Below I’ve listed a few facts and figures regarding anxiety and a few coping mechanisms I use to deal with it.

  • Try to do something physical daily.

Everyday I will try to do some form of exercise, it can be a gruelling 2 hour workout or just popping out for a short walk. 

  • Read more.

This is something that has taken me a long time to get into. Im constantly looking for books/podcasts that I can relate too in terms of building up my confidence and adapting it to my current life. Podcasts are amazing too! Headphones in, long walk and it stops me thinking about all my worries.

  • Meditation

Meditation is something that I have yet to try but will look to introduce to my current routine. One study found that four 20-minute meditation classes helped reduce anxiety by up to 39 percent. Theres plenty of apps out there you can use such as headspace and calm.

  • Put yourself in uncomfortable positions

This is a difficult one! As soon as you start cancelling plans etc it becomes easier and easier to do this. Give your self one task a week to do which is challenging to you. It could be as simple as shopping in a different supermarket. Put yourself in a new situation and treat it as an opportunity to grow!

Anxiety is something which can be managed! If anyone has there tips in dealing with theirs, lets share them on here!!