5 Common Mistakes You Might be Making While Self Treating Your Anxiety

Whether you are walking down a park, watching your favorite Netflix series or eating a delicious dessert. Anxiety can strike you at any point in time. It is one of the worst feelings. People suffering from anxiety disorders can be triggered by everyday situations. Even things that may seem trivial to some. Can be a cause of chaos for them. And right now, when the world is amid one of the worst pandemics in history. It can be difficult for people with anxiety disorders to deal with it. So, if you are one of these individuals. Do not hesitate to get an appointment for anxiety consultation from a professional. 

However, if you are one who prefers to self-treat their symptoms. Well, if it works to lower your anxiety, then keep going. But, avoid making these common mistakes while dealing with anxiety yourself.

Fighting your anxiety

The first thing that you must follow while self-treating your anxiety is to learn to accept. Whenever you feel like your anxiety is paying a visit, do not try to fight it or ignore the symptoms. It’s not like if you don’t acknowledge something, it will cease to exist. Rather, the more you try to forget or ignore something, the more attention it gets. And the more difficult it is to forget or ignore. And this is the last thing we want.

So instead of fighting your anxiety. Take note of it. Observe it. Track how it starts. And how much has it increased since its inception.

Not being consistent

Most people make changes in their lifestyles to manage anxiety. For example, the inclusion of distracting and engaging activities. Or keeping a journal to let out emotions and disturbing thoughts. However, just like every other medication. If you are not consistent with the changes you make in your lifestyle. Your anxiety will soon rise and all the cooping tactics will be ineffective. So if you are self-treating your anxiety. Know that consistency is key.

Not paying much attention to self-care

Most people tend to be harsh on themselves for experiencing anxiety. This is definitely not the way to go for self-treatment. So be kind and know that it isn’t your fault. Instead, indulge in self care. It is a kind of distraction that isn’t forced at times of peak anxiety. Rather it slowly glides you into calmness, gets you more relaxed and checks your anxiety. 

You can start with meditation or yoga to practice deep breathing. Also, follow a nutritious diet. Some types of food actually help in maintaining proper mental health. Exercise if you like. Go for a run or try swimming. Spend time in nature. Most importantly spend time with yourself. But, also make sure to be around people and socialize. 

Avoiding the triggers

This is one of the most common and worst mistakes that most people make while dealing with anxiety. People assume that avoiding situations or things that triggers anxiety is the best way to keep it at bay. But, this method actually does the opposite. When you try to run from uncomfortable situations. You are actually always anxious and in a lookout for avoiding those scenarios. As a result, your anxiety levels rise. So instead, you must try to slowly get comfortable with those situations. This is actually called exposure therapy. However, this therapy may need supervision and care. So, make sure to consult a professional.

Not seeking professional help

One of the most common types of mental illness in the U.S. is an anxiety disorder. As much as 40 million of the total adult population suffers from anxiety. However, most of them resort to self-treatment rather than getting anxiety consultation from professionals. And there is no harm is self-treating. In fact, if you are able to successfully control it. Good for you. 

But, again, self-treatment is very subjective.  It depends on your level of anxiety. While self-treatment can work for lower levels. People with severe anxiety may need professional help. Also, methods that relax you may do the opposite for someone else. 

So, you should try getting professional help for the sake of your health and not assume that it won’t work.

Final Thoughts

Every type of mental disorder needs to be evaluated by a professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your self-care methods may be working or they may be setting patterns for anxiety. So to be on the safe side. You must get in touch with a professional and keep them updated about your progress.