Anxiety is a normal part of life, a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be mild or severe. However, when these feelings become persistent and start to interfere with daily activities, it may indicate an anxiety disorder. Fortunately, professional behavioral health treatment exists that can help address anxiety disorders. In addition to evidence-based therapies, many treatment programs recommend activities to help with anxiety.
In the heart of Texas, near Austin, The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare provides a professional anxiety treatment program to help you or a loved one with anxiety. Call 844.413.2690 today to learn more about our programs and services.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations.
These disorders come in various forms, including the following:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Specific phobias
- Separation anxiety disorder
Some anxiety is a normal part of life when we are exposed to stressful or intimidating situations. However, when that anxiety is persistent and disruptive to regular everyday activities, it is essential to seek professional treatment.
Symptoms of Anxiety
Symptoms often vary from individual to individual and may be mild or severe. Some of the most common symptoms often include the following:
- Feelings of restlessness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Sleep issues
The severity of these symptoms can range from mild discomfort to debilitating fear.
Therapeutic Approaches to Anxiety
A combination of evidence-based therapies and holistic approaches often work best for addressing anxiety. Self-care for anxiety, including activities to help with anxiety that can be performed as needed, is extremely beneficial.
At The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, we offer comprehensive residential and outpatient treatment programs for anxiety that include evidence-based therapies, such as:
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Trauma therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Dual diagnosis
In addition, we offer holistic approaches that include the following:
- Equine therapy
- Yoga therapy
- Meditative therapy
Our professional behavioral health specialists employ a combination of evidence-based and holistic strategies to create a customized treatment plan for each client.
Activities to Help with Anxiety
While therapy is a crucial component in managing anxiety, integrating self-care to reduce anxiety into one’s routine can significantly enhance recovery progress. Here are ten self-care activities that can help manage anxiety:
- Mindful meditation – This practice helps individuals focus on the present moment, reducing worries about the future or past.
- Regular exercise – Physical activities can help reduce anxiety by boosting your mood and acting as a natural stress reliever.
- A balanced diet – Eating a healthy diet can profoundly affect your mood and energy levels, reducing anxiety symptoms.
- Adequate sleep – Quality sleep is essential for emotional well-being and can help manage anxiety.
- Deep breathing exercises – These exercises can help slow your heart rate, promoting a feeling of calm and relaxation.
- Journaling – Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way of dealing with anxiety.
- Yoga – Yoga combines physical postures, breathing exercises, meditation, and a distinct philosophy in managing stress and anxiety.
- Socializing – Spending time with friends and family can uplift your mood and provide a support system.
- Reading – Getting lost in a good book can distract you from anxious thoughts.
- Spending time in nature – Exposure to green spaces reduces stress levels, increases relaxation, and boosts mood.
Remember, managing anxiety is not a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s about finding the right balance between professional treatment and self-care activities that work best for you.
Contact The Arbor for Activities to Help with Anxiety
If you’re near Austin, Texas, consider reaching out to The Arbor Behavioral Health for personalized assistance to manage anxiety effectively. Our residential and outpatient programs can help you or a loved one address any underlying issues, including substance use disorder or co-occurring mental health conditions, that are contributing to the anxiety disorder.
Call 844.413.2690 or contact The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare online to get started with anxiety treatment today.