Dear teens: Overcoming anxiety is not easy, but here are tips to help you cope with it

Anxiety can surface when you face a challenge, when the pressure’s on you to do well, or when you’ve got a worry on your mind.

It affects everyone but is slightly more detrimental to teenagers’ health, according to Teens Health.

The following five tips will assist you in overcoming moments of anxiety as a teen:

Have a ‘growth’ mentality at first

Certain people only think in one way. They may believe, “This is who I am.” I’m too shy to talk in front of the class. Thus, I don’t hold up my hand. People who have a fixed attitude don’t believe that things can change. They believe that they are, well, who they are.

However, research on the brain has demonstrated that you can teach your brain new ways to react. Growth-minded people are aware of this. They are aware that, with work and repetition, they can improve at almost anything. That involves lowering nervousness.

Take note of your body’s reaction to anxiety

Do you get “butterflies” in your tummy when you’re nervous? Sweaty palms? Trembling hands? A heartbeat that beats more quickly? Tense muscles?

The stress reaction in your body is responsible for these bodily sensations. They aren’t dangerous, although they can be uncomfortable. You can handle it. Try to acknowledge them the next time you feel them, without being irritated by their presence. You don’t need to suppress your emotions. 

However, you are also not required to focus solely on them. Try allowing them to fade into the background.

Take a breath

Breathe deeply a couple of times when you’re feeling nervous. Inhale gradually. Make sure you release all of your breath. You can count four or five breaths, in and out, using your fingers.

The release of stress hormones can be slowed down by breathing slowly. It can promote a more relaxed state of mind and body. You can direct your attention away from worried thoughts and feelings and towards your breathing. This type of breathing can help you feel calmer and more stable.

Talk to yourself through it

You may tell yourself things like, “I can’t do this!” or, “What if I mess this up?” when you’re nervous. Alternatively, Instead, make a mental note to tell yourself something like, “I can do this!” or “It’s OK to feel anxious,” so that you can confront the situation with a little bravery. In any case, try to say “I can handle this”.

Confront it

Don’t wait for your anxiety to pass, instead, face the circumstances. You may wait to chat with that new individual or speak in front of the class until you’re no longer nervous. However, things don’t operate that way. Taking on the anxiety itself aids in reducing it.