Ghouls, goblins, ghosts, oh my!! With the spooky season upon us, it is important to not only acknowledge but also to manage fear and anxiety. Too many times, we encounter a problem or situation and choose to ignore it because we believe that ignoring a problem or pretending there are no issues is better than working through it. Here are some simple tips that can help you overcome these obstacles:
- Take a deep calming breath.
- Acknowledge the situation.
- Speak positive affirmations!
- Find your coping mechanism.
First, take a deep breath! This is advice many mental health workers and psychologists give to their patients. Deep calming breaths help refocus your attention to something that you can immediately control. Deep breathing exercises and controlled movements are methods that help you remain grounded, such as squeezing your fist for five seconds and then releasing—doing this repeatedly can help calm an anxiety attack.
Acknowledge that something is wrong and there is something bothering you. This does not mean that the problem is immediately solved, you are simply confirming that there is a problem and what the source of that problem is! If you have calmed down and you feel you have the energy and mental capacity to tackle the situation head on, then do so. Just know that you do not have to search for an immediate resolution.
In an effort to refocus or retrain your mind to bypass negative thoughts, speak positive affirmations! Speaking them aloud resets your positive intentions and refocuses your attention on what you can control instead of what’s going wrong. It always seems to be easier said than done, but it’s important to try. You won’t be able to get it every time, but at least you’re putting in a valid effort!
Coping mechanisms work for people in different ways; finding a way to relieve your anxiety or stress is the key! Whether it’s doing yoga, lighting incense, deep breathing exercises, or talking to a friend, allow yourself the opportunity to get out of a negative mental state rather than let it consume your thoughts. Find out what immediately calms you and go to your happy place!
These are just some tips and ideas on how to navigate through tough situations! Ultimately, the main thing to remember is that it is okay to feel how you are feeling. Remember that it’s not the end of the world. Breathe in, breathe out, and refocus your energy into positive forms of releasing tension.