We all want to be healthier in every aspect of our lives. However, some may feel that while their general health is in perfect condition, stress gets the better of them. No matter how much we exercise and eat well, stress can quickly seem to wipe out progress. If you know that an event may take a toll on you, consider what you can do about it. Brainstorm ways to lower – or at least manage- your stress.
As someone who has been open about my mental health journey, well-being has become an important aspect of my life. I’m not saying that I have all of the answers. However, the following are 3 ways to regain control over your “event anxiety”. Even if it is for a brief moment, there are ways for us to manage our stress.
Focus on the Things You Can Control
Things don’t always work out as we want them to. It’s (unfortunately) a fact of life! The best thing we can do is to remind ourselves that some things are in our control. Then, make sure that you are prepared as best as possible for said things.
Let’s use the event of moving as an example. There are many aspects of moving that we do have control over. This includes finding the right long-distance moving company and having a plan that is completely detailed. From a moving day itinerary to an item checklist, organization and visualization are powerful tools. Remove whatever you can from your mind and place it on paper! Personally, I love making lists. I usually write out a to-do list for the day. As I complete a task, I cross it out and it simply feels amazing. There have been days when I was so busy that I didn’t have time to make a list. Instead, once everything was completed, I wrote down what I had accomplished in bullet form. It’s like celebrating the small victories of the day!
Keep reminding yourself that when we worry about things that are beyond our control, it’s just wasted energy. I know that is easier said than done. However, taking a moment to simply take a deep breath and regroup can be surprisingly effective.
Control Your Interpretation of Stress
We all react to stress in different ways. Some people feel knots in the pit of their stomachs. Others may have pains in the back and/or neck, or even begin to hyperventilate. Physical signs of stress can usually be controlled, no matter how difficult it may appear. It may take a lot of practice, but slowly but surely with regular practice, you should be able to notice a difference.
When you feel your body beginning to react, remind yourself that what is occurring is just a physiological reaction. Rather than thinking of it as negative, consider this to be a natural reaction. It’s normal to feel a certain way sometimes.
You can also find ways to have a bit more control over your stress. There are a variety of tools out there! This podcast, for example, can make a difference for some. It not only explains how to understand your interpretation of stress but also, how you can control it. The great thing about listening to podcasts, affirmations, music, etc. is that you can try a variety of different mediums. Experiment to see what works best for you! Luckily, with how quickly technology has advanced, these resources can fit right into your pocket.
Sharing Your Thoughts and Feelings
When it comes to an upcoming event that is causing you to worry, talk about it! Reach out to a friend or family member, and have a chat! It doesn’t have to be an intense “therapy session” type of conversation. Keep it light if you wish, and simply mention the event and your feelings toward it. Odds are, whomever you’re speaking to will mention a similar situation that caused them to event anxiety too.
Some people try to hide the fact that they are stressed or anxious. Unfortunately, they may think being open about it will hinder the public’s perception of them/the event. It’s sad but true- even in 2022, people remain to be ostracized for their personal issues. Hopefully, society will one day be at least a bit more open and understanding.
In the meantime, if you start to bounce your doubts and fears off others, you may find instant relief. As the proverb says, “A problem shared is a problem halved”. If you feel stressed during the days, weeks, or even months before the event, write about it in a journal! A very simple “brain dump” can help you to offload all of these random unconnected thoughts. As soon as you do this, close the book and visualize yourself stepping away from it all. This is especially helpful during those nights when you can’t stop tossing and turning due to nerves.
Big events can, naturally, feel overwhelming.
Just know that your feelings are valid, and you will work them out! I hope you have found this to be even the slightest bit helpful. While these tips and tricks may not work for everyone, they are worth trying at least once! Some of them may be better for certain situations and scenarios than others. I believe it takes time and patience to figure out what really works for you.
Do you have any tips to handle “event anxiety”? Or, perhaps even anxiety in general? Please leave a comment below and let me know! I’m always looking for new coping mechanisms to try. Again, if you’re feeling like you have no one to turn to, please reach out for help. Call a friend, a family member, a hotline- ANYONE. And, in case you haven’t been told today, you matter. Your life matters. If you feel like no one cares, please know that I do.
Related to Event Anxiety:
How to be a Mental Health Advocate: A Complete Guide
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