Hello folks 👋🏼

[Bellaella94]

Hey guys. I’m new here, so I’ll introduce myself.

I’ve struggled with anxiety depression since my preteens. Over the past 2 years, I've finally made real progress through getting help (seeing a cousellor), taking care of my health (seeing a naturopath or sho-tai practicioner), lots of personal development (Tony Robbins, the MFCEO project), surrounding myself with positive and driven people, and finding strength and growing in my faith. Though I’m through the thicket and no longer a danger to myself, I still struggle with anxiety and am here to learn more and hopefully help others.

So, hola ! It’s good to be here! 😊

[Hidden]

Do you exercise? Anxiety will always be a part of life so don’t get discouraged. You need to cultivate healthy outlets to relieve your stress and anxiety. I find exercise helps me. You know yourself better than I do so you need to take stock of what works for you.

[Bellaella94 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks! I’ve been trying to start an exercise routine but I can never seem to make it a habit. When I do workout I feel better. I guess maybe instead of trying to do some crazy workout plan I should just try to do something I enjoy?

[Hidden in reply to Bellaella94]

I would try both. You don’t need to go hard into an exercise routine to receive the benefits of stress relief. It could be something as simple as taking a brisk walk. Being outside seeing nature and under the sun can have a calming effect. You could also ride a bike. If you have a dog throwing the ball around outside can lower stress. Get creative. Think outside the box. If you go hard to fast it will wear you out and discourage you. Keep it simple.

[Bellaella94 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks! That is super encouraging. I think that's what I've been doing wrong... I'll try to get more creative!

[sherril2291]

I've found that writing in a journal helps me a lot. I don't always have someone to talk to about what's going on, so over the years I've gotten in the habit of "talking" to my journal. Just getting my thoughts on paper helps me get them out of my head, and then I'm able to make a plan, if need be, or just clear my head. And the neat thing is, when I read over them every few months, I see the progress I'm making in certain areas, and that provides much-needed encouragement. I also like to make a point of looking for something to be grateful for, as well. That helps ward off that slippery slide into negative thinking, though it's good to get the negative out, on paper, when it's present.