Coping Skills to Manage Stress and Anxiety

It’s no secret that I’ve struggled with anxiety throughout my entire life. That’s why I’m sharing

the coping skills that have worked me when I feel my stress levels rising.

I understand anxiety is experienced differently for everyone so feel free to try one and let me know what works for you!

1. Give Yourself a Mantra

And say it to yourself when you start to get anxious. This doesn’t have to be something monumental, it just has to give you a little motivation to keep going. Something as simple as ‘just breath’ can remind you to stay present and not to fall into your anxiety. I go by two:

- ‘take it easy’ (which my grandfather always said to me!) Why that? Because it reminds me of my family. It’s a friendly reminder of what’s important, and how much love is around me.

- ‘This won’t matter in a year’- This is the much-needed reality check I need to get back in line.

2. Fake It

When I go to any major event I'm nervous for I'll fake it. I'll fake my confidence, persona and act. This doesn’t mean to take on a completely different personality...but before you know it the 'acting' turns into reality!

3. Tackle It

Thinking about calling a friend? Just do it...now. Stop thinking. Start doing.

4. Talk About It

When first coming to terms with my anxiety and stress I was worried people would reject me for it and think less of me. But, what happened was actually pretty incredible! People began opening up to me. They also gained a clearer perspective about where it was I was coming from.

5. Establish a Routine

If you experience anxiety like myself, a routine and set schedule is the epitome of happiness. So, instead of thinking that your day is unmanageable, set a plan.

6. Don’t Punish Yourself

You can’t beat yourself up over everything. After all, whose team are you on? Learn to forgive yourself as if you were dealing with a friend. How would you react to them in the situation you’re in? What would you tell them to do?

6. Don’t Compromise Yourself

Give yourself the attention you deserve! Treat yourself like the number 1 priority you are. Start holding yourself accountable to completing daily tasks of self-care like a yoga class or massage.