Self-Care: Anxiety Attacks
After my experience today having an anxiety attack in front of my whole family, I decided to make a list of wisdom for any who need it!
-You are okay. You are not weird. You are not embarrassing. You are not making this up. It is not in your head or a cry for attention. This is real and you will be okay. :)
-Breathe through it! The attack will pass and you are okay. Take care of yourself and keep your breathing steady.
-It's okay to politely excuse yourself from social situations. Go for a little walk. Go to the bathroom. Wash your hands. Get a drink of water. Do what YOU need to do until you feel better and the attack passes.
-Only you can decide when you are ready to return to social situations. Don't let anyone pressure you into going back before you are ready. They aren't the judge of that. You are.
-If you are in a loud area, listen to some music you enjoy or is calming. The repetitious sounds and familiar tunes will give you a stability of mind which leads to relaxation.
-Take care of normal body needs! When you lack sleep, food, or water it is easy for your body to slip into fight or flight mode and an attack begin. Sip some water. Keep a snack on you. Have a nap. It's okay to take care of yourself. Please do!
-Exercise will increase endorphins and helps you sleep better. It reduces the chance of an attack happening and is overall very healthy.
-Take vitamins! They help balance hormones and other body needs that might be otherwise looked over.
-Reduce intake of caffeine and alcohol. They may make you feel better in the moment, but can have lasting effects later on when you crash.
-Therapists have been prescribing books to young anxiety warriors to help them cope and calm. Read a book. Make some art. Go into nature. Listen to or make music. Do what makes you feel at one with yourself.
-Take your meds. I know it's easy to forget, or feel like you don't need it, or feel embarrassed when you take it, but please help yourself out! It isn't a sign of weakness, it is only armor in your battle against anxiety. It only works when you put it on and can give you an extra push, but can't fight your battles for you.
-Talk to a trusted friend or family member. Tell them what's up. It's nice to have someone on your team to cheer you on! They won't think any less of you. :)
-Please look after yourself. I love you!
-You are not a victim. You are a warrior! Don't ever forget that! You got this and I believe in you!
REMEMBER: You don't owe anyone an explanation. If you don't want to tell them, then don't. It isn't any of their business and you got this handled without them in yours. Stay fabulous.
