Anxiety is a problem that upwards of 30% of the American population deals with at some point in their life.  Anxiety disorder has been diagnosed in over 7 million Americans, which means they deal with the issue on a daily time frame.  This article is one person’s research and is not intended to replace medical help, so talk to a professional about your specific situation.  Whether it is a medical doctor or a therapist, seek professional help so you can make the best decision on your health possible.

What is anxiety- according to Merriam-Webster dictionary

Medical: an abnormal and overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physical signs (such as tension, sweating, and increased pulse rate), by doubt concerning the reality and nature of the threat, and by self-doubt about one's capacity to cope with it;  mentally distressing concern or interest

If this is something that almost everyone deals with at some point or another, why are we worried about it? Because, there are certain changes you can make in your life to help reduce or eliminate the effects of anxiety.

Bad Foods can be a trigger based on an interview between The PR Group and DR. Julie Gatza Co-founder of the Florida Wellness Institute

Sugary foods and drinks:  The sugar gives you a boost of energy followed by a drop in blood sugar.

Fast Food: Fast Food contains preservatives and other chemicals which can affect the balance in your body which may cause anxiety.

White Bread: Again, this product is full of sugar and carbs that give you a boost and then a crash in your blood sugar.

Chips: Chips are not healthy for many reasons, but the heart clogging fats and the habit of over indulgence could lead to severe anxiety.

What to do

Of course there are prescription and over the counter medications that can be used for anxiety.  The most important thing to do is try to avoid things that make you anxious.

Crowded stores- if possible, go during off hours or use curb side shopping.

Uncomfortable family gatherings- if you must go, try to stay to the outside perimeter of the group so you don’t feel boxed in.  Focus on one on once conversations vs. talking to everyone at the same time.

Driving during rush hour traffic- once again, if possible leave earlier or later.  If that isn’t an option, take all side or secondary streets.  It will take you longer, but you won’t feel the stress.

These are only a few examples with a couple of options.

What do the experts say

• Hug someone (with their permission of course)
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Go for a walk
• Breathe deep

A couple of things I use

• Go for a drive in the country
• Listen to favorite music, or in my case a good comedian
• Physical labor- get active with something, cleaning or building or fixing.  The activity will take your mind off of the issue for a while and allow it settle down
• Read a book- I like Westerns or books written by Montanans

Anxiety is not a joke and can’t be ignored.  Hopefully, after reading this, you realize you are not alone and that many people deal with anxiety as well.  As always, talk to a professional about your specific situation.

If you have a story idea or something you want to learn more about, give Randy a call at 406-788-3003 or send me an email at randall.bogden@townsquaremedia.com