Anxiety Don’ts: Things You Should Avoid Doing

Anxiety is a natural and normal human emotion. However, when it becomes excessive, it can be a debilitating condition that affects various aspects of your life. If you struggle with anxiety, it is essential to recognize the things that can trigger or worsen your symptoms. Here are some things you should avoid doing if you're anxious.

Avoid Overthinking

You are overthinking about a conversation you had with your boss, worrying about whether you said something wrong or whether they were upset with you. You replay the conversation over and over again in your head, which only increases your anxiety.

Overthinking is a common behavior that people with anxiety tend to engage in. Overanalyzing situations or events can lead to increased anxiety and worry. When you find yourself caught up in negative thoughts, try to break the cycle by distracting yourself with an activity or engaging in positive self-talk.

Avoid Avoidance

You're afraid of flying and avoid traveling by plane altogether. Although this may provide temporary relief, it prevents you from visiting new places and experiencing new things. By avoiding flying, you're reinforcing your fear and limiting your opportunities.

Avoidance is a behavior that people with anxiety often use to cope with their symptoms. Avoiding situations or activities that make you anxious may provide temporary relief, but it can also reinforce your anxiety in the long run. Instead, try gradually exposing yourself to the things that trigger your anxiety. This can help you build confidence and reduce your anxiety over time.

Avoid Self-Medication

You're feeling anxious about a job interview, and to calm your nerves, you may turn to alcohol or other substances to cope with the feeling before the interview. Although this may make you feel relaxed temporarily, it can impair your judgment, affect your performance, and lead to more anxiety in the long run.

Self-medicating with drugs or alcohol can be a tempting way to cope with anxiety, but it is not a healthy or sustainable solution. Substance abuse can exacerbate anxiety symptoms and create new problems in your life. If you're struggling with anxiety, seek professional help and explore healthy coping strategies like exercise, meditation, or therapy.

Avoid Isolation

You're feeling anxious about a social gathering and decide to cancel your plans and stay home instead. Although this may provide temporary relief, it prevents you from building social connections and reinforcing your fear of social situations.

Isolation can be a natural response to anxiety, but it can also worsen your symptoms. Social support is essential in managing anxiety, so make an effort to stay connected with family and friends. Joining a support group or talking to a mental health professional can also provide you with the support and understanding you need.

Avoid Comparing Yourself to Others

You're feeling anxious about your job performance and start comparing yourself to your co-worker, who seems to be excelling in their role. You start to feel inadequate and worry that you're not doing well enough. This comparison only increases your anxiety and makes it harder for you to focus on your own progress and achievements.

Comparing yourself to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and increase your anxiety. Remember that everyone has their struggles, and you're not alone in your experiences. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your progress and accomplishments.

Anxiety is a challenging condition that can significantly impact your life. It's essential to recognize the behaviors and actions that can worsen your symptoms and take steps to avoid them. Overthinking, avoidance, self-medication, isolation, and comparing yourself to others are common pitfalls that people with anxiety often fall into. 

By avoiding these actions and seeking professional help, you can learn healthy coping strategies, build confidence, and manage your anxiety more effectively. Remember that you're not alone in your struggles, and with time and effort, you can overcome anxiety and lead a fulfilling life.