Anxiety involves intense worry, fear, and apprehension that has cognitive, emotional, and physical impacts. For example, when experiencing anxiety, you might have disturbing thoughts, feel scared or out of control, and have a racing heart and shortness of breath. The relationship between anxiety and addiction is complex and intertwined. Many people with anxiety disorders turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate, often leading to substance abuse or addiction. Conversely, many people who suffer from addiction commonly develop anxiety disorders and depression. And for anxiety treatment located in New Jersey, reach out to Next Wind Recovery.
At Next Wind Recovery, our experienced team understands the complex nature of co-occurring disorders like addiction and anxiety. We know that you may feel trapped in a cycle you cannot break on your own, no matter how many times you try, and we are here to help. Reach out to us today at 201.331.6569.
Coping Techniques to Help with Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to something stressful. In certain circumstances, anxiety is beneficial. For example, if you have an upcoming presentation at work, anxiety can motivate you to perform at your best. Anxiety becomes detrimental when it is persistent, excessive, and unwarranted or begins to interfere with your ability to carry out everyday responsibilities. Luckily, anxiety disorders are very receptive to treatment.
Next Wind Recovery offers anxiety treatment in New Jersey that is curated to meet your unique needs. We know that not everyone can completely step out of life to receive the treatment they need, so we offer comprehensive outpatient dual diagnosis treatment to overcome anxiety and addiction at the same time.
Through anxiety treatment in New Jersey, you will learn skills such as these five coping techniques to help with anxiety:
- Stop and breathe – Focusing on your breath takes your mind of the anxious thought and slows your heart rate and breathing, naturally calming you down.
- Question your thinking – Challenge your fear, ask if it is accurate, and see where you can take back control of your thoughts.
- Exercise – A quick walk or other physical activity diverts your focus from your mind to your body.
- Write down your thoughts – Seeing your thoughts in words can make them less unsettling and take away their negative power.
- Focus on what you can change – Anxious thoughts are usually tied to the past or the future, which are out of your control. Focus on things you can control in the present, even as simple as doing a chore.
As with most mental health disorders, anxiety is not curable, but through anxiety treatment, you can learn the tools to manage symptoms so that it does not control your life.
Learning How to Help Someone with Anxiety
If you have a co-worker, friend, or family who suffers from anxiety, you might sometimes feel frustrated with them. For individuals who do not understand the severe impacts anxiety disorders can have, a person’s anxiety can seem foolish or annoying. Additionally, it can be very upsetting and painful to see someone you love struggle with anxiety.
The best thing you can do to help someone suffering from anxiety is to encourage them to seek professional anxiety treatment and let them know that you will actively support them in their recovery. Here are some other tips:
- Educate yourself about the different types of anxiety and how they manifest
- Learn to recognize the signs of anxiety
- Acknowledge the anxiety
- Listen and help facilitate a plan of action
- Set limits and take care of yourself
- Share resources such as books, meditation apps, etc
An essential part of learning to help someone with anxiety is knowing what is not helpful. Avoid judging, blaming, or taking on the role of a therapist. Most importantly, know that telling someone not to worry can seem dismissive and make them hide their anxiety.
Find Anxiety Treatment in New Jersey at Next Wind Recovery
If you are ready to stop anxiety and addiction from controlling your life, Next Wind Recovery is prepared to help. Reach out to our team today by using our online form or calling 201.331.6569. Find the treatment you deserve today at Next Wind Recovery.