Antidote to Anxiety:
The Joys of a Life Free From Fear
There is more than one antidote to anxiety and you will need
to choose the path that is best for you.
For Steve, the best antidote turned out to be a combination of anxiety medication, therapy and breathing exercises.
"My therapist explained to me that since anxiety is such a complex illness, the antidote for anxiety must be tailored to the individual’s specific needs. I have found the breathing exercises particularly helpful when I feel a panic attack coming on."
In her outstanding book titled "Calming Words," Dr. Jeannette Kavanagh recommends the use of breathing exercises to help calm the body and spirit.
She subscribes to the theory that there is no "once size fits all" antidote for anxiety. "Through all of my wonderful clients, I have learned a very important truth about anxiety and panic attacks. One size does not fit all. What works for you might not work for anyone else. Part of the truth about anxiety and panic attacks is that no one way to manage them works for every person.
Calming Words brings you all the techniques and strategies that have allowed people to move from all forms of anxiety back to a life of calm and confidence."
Some well established stress-reducing activities that can serve as antidotes to anxiety include going on a walk, talking to a friend, listening to or playing music, yoga and other forms of creative expression.
It’s very helpful to end the day with at least 30 minutes of relaxing activity which enables you to unwind and more easily fall asleep. Some people find that reading a book of inspirational quotes before retiring and upon awakening can set the stage for restful sleep and positive thoughts during the day.
The important thing is to find the antidote to anxiety that works for you. Talk to your doctor or mental health professional about your antidote for anxiety and discover the joys of a live free from fear.