Anxiety is an affliction that many people experience. Anxiety is generally manageable without medication and therapy, but if it is left to gain control over your life it may develop into a more severe anxiety disorder that is treatable with therapy and medication. Making improvements to your lifestyle can help you reduce your anxiety and keep the development of an anxiety disorder at bay.
Step 1
Improve your diet. Eliminate foods that are high in sugar and fats, advises MayoClinic.com. Include nutritionally rich foods in your diet such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
Step 2
Cut back on drinking and if you are a smoker, kick the habit. Alcohol actually causes an increase in anxiety as its effects begin to wear off, notes HelpGuide.org. Nicotine is a powerful stimulant that leads to higher levels of anxiety.
Step 3
Increase your commitment to physical activity. According to HelpGuide.org, regular exercise or physical activity can reduce your symptoms of anxiety by increasing the production of endorphins in your brain. Create time in your daily routine for at least 30 minutes of exercise. Do some kind of physical activity at least five times a week. Make sure the activities you choose increase your heart rate. As you begin your exercise routine, start small and work up to more intense exercises. This will help you avoid injury and burnout.
Step 4
Take an alternative supplement to help keep your anxiety symptoms at bay. According to MayoClinic.com, the herb kava is reported to help you relax without causing you to feel sedated, but it can lead to liver problems. Increase the amount of B vitamins you consume. According to MayoClinic.com, they help to relieve anxiety by increasing the production of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Talk to your doctor before you begin taking any herbal remedies or supplements so that you can discuss all the options and risks.
Step 5
Talk to someone. Find someone you are close to or a couple people you can trust, and get support from them. Consult with your support system when your anxieties become too much to handle. Allow them to question your thinking. Trust that they want to help you and offer support. Call them or email them when you feel you are in need. Socialize with the people who are supportive in your life. Go out to eat. Take walks together.
