Coping with anxiety
Worry is an important part of life. It can even be helpful as it can protect us from certain situations – such as stepping out into the road. However, excessive and irrational worries could be a sign that you are suffering with an anxiety disorder. There are a number of strategies that can be put in place to cope with anxiety. We have listed a few examples below, which should be helpful. Ø Method 1 Ø 4-7-8 Breathing This technique is based on science. When we are anxious our breathing rate increases, and this causes our brain to respond via the parasympathetic nervous system. This means that the “fight or flight mode” is activated. We respond as if there is a threat that we must defend ourselves against. The basis of 4-7-8 breathing is to increase the levels of carbon dioxide and decrease the levels of oxygen in the brain. This can be equated to using a paper bag to breathe into. The higher the levels of carbon dioxide are, the calmer you become. This techni...