Can I let you guys in on a little secret? I’ve mentioned it here a few times in passing but never really am too open with it. I struggle with anxiety. There I said it. I struggle with it a lot sometimes. Ever since getting married my anxiety has gotten a lot worse and I’m not really sure why. I think a lot has to do with me not being in control and that just downright scares me. The past few days though have been rough. Sometimes I literally feel like I’m lost at sea. Sounds like a funny analogy but for those of you who also struggle with anxiety maybe can relate. The thing that confuses me the most is that I feel like God has been insanely good to me in this season and this seems to be the hardest season yet. I just listened to an old sermon from my church on anxiety and it seems to have helped a little bit. I wrote a list of things that I am going to do when anxiety strikes to help and hopefully these might be able to help some of you as well.
Tips for Overcoming Anxiety:
- Pray. Come before God and share your heart with Him. Tell Him your fears and just pour out everything on your mind. Sometimes this alone will help ease some anxiety. “Cast your cares on Him because He cares for you.” Also lay down your control as best you can. Recognize that God is a good father and you can trust Him. He’s brought you this far and will not leave you now.
- Memorize His Promises. This was sometimes I picked up from the sermon I just listened too. If you have time, I would suggest also listening to it too. The link is here, it helped me to remember the greatest thing we can do to battle anxiety is to fight back by memorizing God’s promises to us and also by transforming our minds by reading God’s word.
- Eat Healthy. For me this is going to mean to participate in the Whole 30 Challenge. But for you that might just mean eating more fruits and veggies. Do something to make yourself feel good. Eating good food always helps me feel more healthy and can in turn help with anxiety.
- Exercise or get active. Again this may mean something very different for each person. For one it might mean going on walks every night after dinner to clear your head. For others it might mean hitting the gym three times a week or going for a hike. Whatever it means to be a little more active for you – just do it. Don’t buy the lie that you’re too busy to be just a little more active. It is so important when it comes to mental health. I’m committed to going for runs or at least walks every day just to try to get outside my thoughts. So far it seems to be helping.
These are just a few ideas that might help with anxiety. If you struggle with anxiety too – what are some things that help you? I could use all the help I can get over here.
