Anxiety has become so common in modern society that if you don’t suffer, it’s likely you will know someone who does.
Learning how to live with it, and to keep yourself physically and mentally in the best of health is important, and the need for everyday tips for those struggling with anxiety is apparent now more than ever.
And here, a range of experts have offered their advice on how to better manage your anxiety.
“Stress and anxiety is increasing in society due to several factors; increased breakdown of family life and structures means people do not get the emotional and practical support they used to. Also, constant news feeds, incessant social media access, has increased anxiety – information overload and FOMO,” commented Psychologist and Psychotherapist, Corinne Sweet, working in association with ThinkWell-LiveWell.
So, what can you do to help?
- Switch up your hot beverage: “If you’re a coffee addict, then matcha green tea may be a perfect alternative. This antioxidant rich beverage uses the whole tea leaf, which means it’s a source of a special compound called L-theanine. Research suggests that L-theanine can help to stimulate feelings of relaxed alertness and clarity without those anxious jitters that come from caffeine,” explained Nutritonist, Lily Soutter.
- Avoid alchohol when possible: “Alcohol can have a negative effect on mental health including anxiety and stress,” Lily added. Alcohol changes levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain, which can worsen anxiety. You may notice that you feel more anxious after the alcohol wears off, this is because alcohol-induced anxiety can last for several hours, or even for an entire day after drinking.
- Mix things up: Mindset and Marketing Coach, Isabella Venour, recommended: “When you’re feeling anxious, your mind can find it hard to find solutions. An instant way to interrupt the effects of anxiety is to change your state, which could involve simply going for a walk or even doing star jumps while smiling!”
- Lemon balm: “The lemon balm plant is a member of the mint family, which comes with a beautiful lemony aroma. It has traditionally been used to improve cognition, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that supplementation with lemon balm may help to induce a sense of calmness, which may be of benefit for those struggling with anxiety,” Lily advised. “In fact, lemon balm leaves have been used in traditional medicine for over 2,000 years and can be easily be incorporated in teas, potpourris, cocktails, cooking, salads, cocktails and anything you think will benefit form a herbal lemony flavour.”
