How Can You Manage Anxiety?
Anxiety Defined
Learning to manage anxiety can be difficult as people learn to strike a manageable work/life balance. Anxiety is a common human emotion that is characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear. It is a normal and natural response to stress or perceived danger. Also, at times it can actually be helpful in some situations as it prepares us to respond to potential threats. In Columbia, Maryland, there are many places that can help you manage anxiety. People can visit places in nature to help calm their physical body which leads to calming of the mind and symptoms of anxiety. But first, what are symptoms of anxiety.
Symptoms of Anxiety
When anxiety becomes excessive or prolonged, it can interfere with daily life and functioning; it may even develop into an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions that are characterized by excessive and persistent feelings of anxiety or fear that are out of proportion to the situation at hand.
Some common symptoms of anxiety include restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. Furthermore, anxiety can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, life experiences, and brain chemistry. Treatment for anxiety disorders may involve therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Understanding how your symptoms impact you is the first step in learning to manage anxiety. Consider nature to help you start.
How Can Nature Help Manage Anxiety?
Nature has a positive effect on mental health and can be helpful in reducing symptoms of anxiety. See below to learn a few ways in which nature can help anxiety.
- Relaxation and stress reduction: Spending time in nature reduces stress and
anxiety levels, which can in turn reduce feelings of anxiety. Being in natural surroundings lowers cortisol levels (hormone associated with stress). - Mindfulness and meditation: Being in nature reduces anxiety and promotes mindfulness, which is the practice of being present in the moment and fully engaged with your surroundings. Also, this can help reduce anxious thoughts and feelings.
- Exercise: Engaging in physical activity in nature, such as hiking or walking, can help reduce anxiety and boost endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals in the brain. In fact, exercise is an effective way to reduce symptoms of anxiety.
- Connection with others: Spending time in nature with friends or family can help foster social connections, which can be beneficial for reducing feelings of anxiety; also, the connection can improve overall mental health.
- Exposure therapy: For some people with anxiety disorders, exposure therapy in a natural environment is an effective way to reduce symptoms by gradually confronting and overcoming fears and anxieties.
Places in Columbia, Maryland That Can Help Manage Anxiety Symptoms
Overall, nature can be a valuable tool in managing symptoms of anxiety and improving mental health. In Columbia Maryland, there are multiple outdoor locations that will allow you to utilize nature to calm your anxiety. Firstly, go to one of the sites noted below. Secondly, walk around and enjoy the scenery. Breathe deeply. Consciously notice what you see, hear, feel and smell. Lastly, use your senses to be at peace with nature and reduce your anxiety.
Start Therapy to Help Manage Anxiety in Columbia, MD
If you want to get additional support then we can help. Our Columbia therapists specialize in treating anxiety. We can help them learn valuable skills that will help them cope in healthy ways throughout their life. Follow these steps to get started.
- Reach out for a free consultation at our Columbia area therapy practice
- Schedule your first appointment for therapy
- Then, learn how to navigate symptoms of anxiety, work through stressors and improve your overall quality of life.
Other Therapy Services We Offer in Maryland & the Washington DC Area
At Crystal Waters Counseling Centers we offer a variety of in-person and online therapy services. Specifically, they are available for children, teens, college students, women, and adults throughout Maryland. In addition, this includes counseling for both anxiety and depression as well as EMDR Therapy, therapy for life transitions, and parent coaching.