Calming Anxiety in Scary Times

Between the pandemic, the election and figuring out how to manage kids, the household, work, finances…it’s no wonder parents feel pushed to the brink. We’re in a constant state of dread and anxiety about the future. And our kids pick up on it. Let’s look at how to calm ourselves so we can at our best(ish) knowing there is no perfect.

So first, what is anxiety? Just amped up worry? Sort of. Worry tends to be more specific, whereas anxiety feels more diffuse and is felt in one’s body. You might experience insomnia, irritability, and inability to relax and enjoy, as well as physical symptoms like headaches, tension, and digestive issues. 

We all get anxious at times. It’s easy to only see the worst case scenarios. So how can we learn to manage our feelings, putting us back in control instead of having the anxiety control us? Here are four easy steps to remember, all of which revolve around self care. And how convenient that the steps happen to spell SELF!

Sleep: Getting more sleep and rest is key. We all know that being tired has a multiplyer effect on negative feelings, making everything seem worse. If you have very young kids that still wake in the night, shoot for 5 hours uninterrupted. If you have older kids, get to bed a bit earlier and go for at least 7 hours. I know you have other stuff to do at night, but set it aside for a week and give yourself a much needed chance to recuperate. 

Exercise: Once you’re medically cleared to exercise, do make the time. Studies have shown that cardio can be as effective as medication for improving moods. You’ll feel more connected to your body, and that can go a long way to helping you acknowledge where you’re holding your anxiety and letting it go. 

Laughter: It really is the best medicine. Laughing (or crying) can help dispell stress hormones and leave you better able to look at your situation and challenges realistically. So put on that comedy, and help shift your mood!

Food: What we put into our bodies, really does impact how we feel. Drink lots of water, eat a high protein, whole grain diet. And eat at regular intervals. Low blood sugar does not a patient, calm person make! 

You might also want to consider professional help. Therapy and, particularly, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is extremely helpful in treating anxiety. There are medications that can also be very helpful in addressing chronic symptoms.