Overcoming Anxiety and Overthinking: A Personal Journey
I have been struggling with anxiety and overthinking for a significant portion of my life. Through the years, I have relied on various unhealthy coping mechanisms, but now I am committed to finding healthier ways to manage these challenges.
Background and Diagnosis
My journey with anxiety began in my teenage years, culminating in a formal diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). While I am now 30, I believe I have had the anxiety for most of my life. For a long time, I used self-harming behaviors, substance abuse, and restrictive eating as ways to cope with my overwhelming feelings. Although these behaviors provided temporary relief, they were never the long-term solution I needed.
Transition to Healthier Coping Mechanisms
After years of relying on harmful coping mechanisms, I became free from self-harm and substance abuse more than two years ago. However, I soon discovered that anorexia had become my new crutch. This relapse was severe and required immediate attention. In recent months, I've been focusing on my recovery, sticking to my meal plan, and experiencing improvements in my physical health. However, my mental and emotional struggles persist.
Understanding and Coping with Anxiety
My doctor recently explained that my past reliance on maladaptive coping mechanisms to block out anxiety means I now feel more of it. To manage this newfound anxiety, I am learning healthy strategies to cope with it. One of the most beneficial methods I have found is journaling. Writing down my thoughts and emotions allows me to process and understand them better. This can be a time-consuming process but is incredibly therapeutic.
Other Helpful Strategies
In addition to journaling, I have found that spending quality time with my cats is enormously comforting. They serve as a form of stress relief and provide a sense of calm. Engaging in activities such as playing with my cats or cuddling with them helps to distract my mind from anxious thoughts. Listening to music or podcasts can also be effective. Recently, I started practicing deep breathing exercises, specifically 7-7-7 breathing (inhale for 7 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, exhale for 7 seconds). This technique not only helps with my anxiety but also alleviates physical symptoms.
Physical Activity and Therapy
Seeking Professional Help
While I am making progress, I am still learning and discovering new strategies that work best for me. I highly recommend seeking professional help through therapy. A skilled therapist can teach you methods to both challenge and manage your anxiety more effectively.
Conclusion
Managing anxiety and overthinking is a lifelong journey, and it's important to stay hopeful and persistent. Every individual is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Continue exploring different strategies and seeking support as needed.