Are you struggling with anxiety but not sure what to do about it? Anxiety affects men and women of all ages, and it can severely affect your day-to-day life. First and foremost, the best action to take is to seek professional help to gain support and guidance. Read on to learn about three long-term strategies for coping with anxiety.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, also known as CBT, can be the most effective form of therapy for treating anxiety. As opposed to talk therapy, a CBT professional works with you by providing you with action-oriented tools and strategies that you can use in your daily life to help prevent anxiety as well as treat anxiety symptoms while they are occurring. Some examples of these coping mechanisms include breathing exercises, writing in a journal and more. Your therapist can help you to discover what works best for you.

Medication

Medication is an important tool for treating anxiety. There are many types of medications available, and they can be very effective depending on your needs and body chemistry. It’s important to know how medications affect you before you drive or do something that requires a lot of focus and attention. Your doctor will help you navigate this form of treatment. Though medication is often stigmatized, do not let outside opinions prevent you from exploring medication as a treatment for your anxiety.

Exercise

Exercising can help manage anxiety by releasing stress while triggering chemicals in your brain that can help you feel happier and calmer. Additionally, exercise is cost-efficient and can be done alone, and therefore, it can be easily incorporated into your schedule. Research has shown that working out in a group setting offers additional benefits. If possible, working out with a trainer can help you measure your physical progress and, in turn, help you feel better about yourself in general. Your CBT therapist can help you figure out what is the best approach for you. Always consult with your doctor before beginning a new exercise regimen.

In many cases, when you consistently incorporate multiple forms of coping skills into your daily routine, you can help prevent and treat anxiety episodes as well as manage it long term. You will get the most effective and safest results with the appropriate support. Always consult a trained CBT professional who specializes in anxiety.