Video Transcription

Tips to help manage anxiety

If you struggle with anxiety, it can be debilitating. These simple strategies may help you manage it. When you’re stressed, you tend to breathe faster. Try breathing in for a slow count of four, holding for a count of four, and breathing out for four. It can help calm you.

Manage your thoughts. Try replacing the unhelpful self-talk in your mind with some helpful thoughts. Focus on what’s going on right now. What are the five things you notice around you? What can you hear, smell, and touch?

As bad as things feel right now, know that the feelings will pass. Remind yourself not to make decisions while you’re anxious. Focus on breathing slowly and know that your body will calm again soon.

Remember that anxiety is like a wave. It comes up, peaks, then goes down. So, letting that wave happen, knowing that it will pass, can help you get through. If you need help, talk to your GP or health professional. In a crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Video by Bupa