7 Ways to Conquer Mental Anxiety

At some point, everyone experiences distress.   Life can blindside us in a way that brings distress and mental anxiety. 

But what is mental anxiety and can it be conquered?

​Mental anxiety sometimes appears in the form of deep introspection of a particular thing.  But, when mind focuses continually over situations, people circumstances, or events that may have occurred or could happen in the future it can become mental anxiety, which is tormenting.

When the mind, whether conscious or unconscious, gets stuck in the habit of repeating unhealthy and unproductive thoughts, it can be traced to how the mind processes stress.

When left to its own devices, mental anxiety is downright draining, and potentially destructive. 

Mental worry can easily lead to depression. However, there are some ways to conquer those overactive thoughts. 

​Here's seven ways to toss anxiety out the door:

Awareness.  Awareness of thoughts that are counter productive is the starting point to change.  ​Change begins with awareness.  Thoughts are like seeds, whatever you plant your mind will produce.  Be aware of your thoughts, so you can create new behaviors to conquer poor thoughts.  

Journaling. Research supports journaling as a way to reduce depression, anxiety, or worry.  Journaling is therapeutic.  When you engage in the physical act of writing the mind is able to  free up inner space.  Write out your concerns.  I use My Listening Prayer Journal each morning to mentally prepare for the day and as a way to listen to God for His directives.

Avoid, Reduce, and/or Eliminate Toxic People or Situations. Pay attention to what is around you.  Who or what are you listening to?  What are you watching?  Who is in your immediate circle?  Are you in a toxic home or workplace? Avoid, reduce, and/or eliminate toxic people or situations that bring your energy levels down. If you are unable to avoid someone who is toxic (e.g., family)  reduce your interactions with them.  You may not be able to leave your job right away, but you can update your resume and start looking for a new one.  Work hard to control your environment.

Exercise. Physical exercise whether it is walking, running, swimming, or cleaning the house, exercise can help you refocus your mind off the circumstance.  You will feel better mentally and physically.
​
Get Enough Sleep. Allow your body to get enough rest.  When you get enough sleep you think better.  And when you think better, you make better decisions. Rest allows you to have the energy to refocus on ways to find solutions, and that alone is a win-win.  

Get Creative.  Consider taking up a hobby.   Creative hobbies, such as painting, crochet, knitting, cooking, woodwork, drawing, etc. allows you to transfer mental anxiety into something beautiful.  Get creative and release your mental anxiety into your new hobby.
​
Prayer and Meditation.  Turn your mental anxieties over to the LORD.  God is able to give you perfect peace.  Release your worries to God in the form of prayer.  Give thanks for what you have and allow God to transform your thoughts.

Let's hear from you.  What are some ways you have conquered mental anxiety?

Disclaimer:  I am not a licensed medical doctor or therapist.  The recommendations should not replace seeking professional help when needed.