“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7 

So today I had sort of a bad day. Anxiety day. Bad everything day. Call it what you want- but I would not call it a good emotional day. Today I could not calm down and my body would not shut down. 

There are a couple of reasons for this: 

1. I’ve been sick with strep throat over the weekend and I was alone today, which I usually don’t mind, but when I’m anxious- I mind. 
2. I got a steroid shot yesterday which leads to my body feeling as if it is a lot healthier than it actually is, initially anyway. 
3. That steroid shot made it harder for me to sleep. 

So overall, I was just exhausted for lack of a better word. 

Sometimes with anxiety or depression we can find ourselves in moments where we are in complete “panic.” It’s hard to describe this phenomenon, and I call it that because logically it usually doesn’t make much sense. Our world feels as if it is caving when in reality, it’s not, we just feel that way. If we were to describe it to someone who has not experienced this they would answer something very logical, like “well do this…” “now do this…” “Okay, well then do this…” 

But to us- the sky is falling. 

Sometimes this is followed by panic attacks or bouts of crying or perhaps for you, there can be shortness of breath and/or dizziness.

Anxiety is a very psychological thing that can do very physical damage if not treated and coped well with. 

So let’s talk about three things you can do to calm those nerves if you feel yourself going into “panic” mode. I haven’t had an anxiety attack in awhile, but panic mode happens to all of us at one time or another. (Once again they are all numbered one I have not figured this out.) 

1. A Hug. This may sound really stupid but one of the ways I ensure myself that I am present and that I am okay is texture, warmth, touch. This is why hugs are so effective, or holding someone causes comfort, because our bodies literally give off that energy they were designed to in order to calm and nurture our children and each other. Sometimes rubbing my ears lobes helps or rubbing my hands down my pant legs, or even a smooth table. Something that reminds you that you are present. Hugs are always nice too or just being held. 

1. Sing. I actually learned that this can help at times and usually it needs to be a song that can cheer you up! Whistle an encouraging tune. You may look pathetic trying but it’ll help! LOL 

1. Let the panic attack happen in a “safe zone.” So we are not always in a place to have a panic attack right? We don’t want to be sitting in a meeting rocking and breathing on pattern. How professional of us. LOL But, sometimes letting that attack happen when you are in a “safe” zone is the best thing for you. The stronger we fight it- the larger it grows. Try not to fight against it when you don’t have to and let it happen and then go on. Afterwards, your body can relax. 

Please know you are not alone in your struggle of anxiety/depression and balancing a life around that. 

Yes, I have went into the bathroom to cry. So have everyone else- let’s be real. It happens. 

You are loved. 
You are valuable. 
You are useful.