This archive report was first published on 8 September 2019.
Published on September 8, 2019, a Reddit thread sparked a conversation about coping with anxiety, with users sharing their personal strategies for managing the condition.
Generalized anxiety disorder affects up to 40 million adults in the United States every year, making it one of the most common mental health issues in the country. Actor and comedian Bill Hader recently spoke openly about his experience with anxiety, highlighting the importance of seeking help and finding effective coping mechanisms.
Many users in the Reddit thread cited cognitive behavioral therapy as a valuable tool for managing anxiety. They recommended techniques such as the 'five senses check,' a method favored by psychiatrists that involves identifying five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This helps ground you in the present and take your mind off of whatever is triggering your anxiety.
Other users advised identifying triggers and avoiding them if possible, as well as preparing for situations that may trigger anxiety beforehand. They also recommended mindfulness exercises such as long walks, meditation, and journaling, which can have calming effects.
Some users found that maintaining a healthy diet and routine helped them cope with anxiety. Eating well, sleeping well, exercising, and sticking to a schedule can keep both the mind and body active, making it less susceptible to intrusive thoughts.
One user shared a unique approach to coping with anxiety: saving compliments. They wrote down kind words from friends, bosses, and strangers, which helped them feel more positive and confident.
