Anxiety is a mental condition that can affect anyone, and it can feel like a debilitating experience. Fortunately, therapy and counseling are effective treatments for anxiety. But, it’s important to know what can trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms, and avoid those things as much as possible. There are certain habits that can be detrimental to those who suffer from anxiety, and in this blog post, we will share some of the things that people with anxiety should avoid.
Avoid Consuming Caffeine: Many of us enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in the morning to start our day. However, for people with anxiety, consuming caffeine can increase their heartbeat, cause restlessness, and trigger panic attacks. Therefore, it’s recommended that those with anxiety limit their caffeine intake or opt for decaf.
Avoid Isolating Yourself: Social isolation is a common issue among people with anxiety. It’s important to maintain healthy social connections since social support can help decrease stress and anxiety symptoms. People with anxiety are encouraged to seek out social events, connect with family and friends, join clubs, or volunteer in their communities.
Avoid Using Drugs and Alcohol: There is no evidence to suggest that recreational drugs can relieve anxiety symptoms; in fact, they can make anxiety symptoms worse. People with anxiety are also advised to limit or avoid alcohol since it can worsen anxiety symptoms when consumed in high amounts.
Avoid Excessively Checking Social Media: Social media can trigger anxiety in a few ways. For example, exposure to people’s curated lives can cause feelings of inadequacy or envy, leading to depression and anxiety. Additionally, excessive and mindless checking of social media can lead to an addiction that can negatively affect mood, attention, and one’s mental and emotional well-being.
Avoid Overthinking and Ruminating: Overthinking and ruminating on negative thoughts are common for people with anxiety. It’s important to consider whether overthinking or rumination is helpful or harmful. People with anxiety should monitor their thoughts and practice mindfulness. Mindfulness can help people learn to be present in the moment and cultivate a non-judgmental awareness of their thoughts and emotions.
In conclusion, managing anxiety can be challenging, but avoiding certain habits can make a significant difference in reducing anxiety symptoms. People with anxiety should consider avoiding caffeine, social isolation, drugs, excessive social media use, and overthinking to minimize anxiety triggers. A combination of psychotherapy and counseling can help people with anxiety in developing coping mechanisms and creating a long-term management plan. Remember, anxiety is treatable, and everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Josh Zettel, BA (Hons), MA, RP, (Qualifying) CCC, or another Kitchener psychotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
