Reducing Anxiety

Topic Overview

You can reduce anxiety and stress in your life by:

  • Taking slow, deep breaths.
  • Soaking in a warm bath.
  • Listening to soothing music.
  • Taking a walk or doing some other exercise.
  • Meditating or praying.
  • Taking a yoga class.
  • Having a massage or back rub.
  • Drinking a warm, nonalcoholic, noncaffeinated beverage.

Changing some of your everyday habits also can reduce stress in your life.

  • Limit or eliminate caffeine and nicotine. Both caffeine and nicotine can trigger a panic attack in some people.
  • Avoid alcohol. It can cause sleep problems and depression. Drinking alcohol also can trigger a panic attack in some people.
  • Avoid using illegal drugs such as marijuana, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), sedatives, cocaine, and amphetamines (for example, speed). These can trigger a panic attack in some people.
  • Reduce or eliminate the use of certain nonprescription medicines, such as some medicines used to treat colds. These can trigger a panic attack in some people.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerAnne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerLisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Last RevisedSeptember 7, 2012
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: September 7, 2012
Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry

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