Lifestyle changes to heal from stress/panic

[davis19792000]

I have always had anxiety but I have been struggling with extreme panic and anxiety for the past 8 months, since the loss of a pet. I think the anxiety was already getting worse, I just didn't know what it was. I have realized that the panic attacks and increased anxiety has taken a toll on my body. My reason for this post is to hopefully give some helpful advice for anyone out there suffering from anxiety and /or panic. I have found that if I eat natural foods and cut out almost all processed sugar, gluten, greasy foods, and caffeine, I can tell a world of difference. If i eat foods I shouldn't I will begin having panic or at least heightened anxiety with low levels of panic. Also, I read that listening to your body is beneficial like resting instead of too much physical exertion. Definitely walking and is key to getting better. Hydration is also vital. And keep a positive outlook even when you don't feel like it. Ive never been one to give up my junk food but it seems that an unhealthy lifestyle was making it harder for my body to deal with stress.

[Hidden]

sorry to hear about your pet.

[laurafazz]

My anxiety has been out of control following the death of my cat coupled with some other major life changes, and it’s funny you said that about healthy eating. I’m not a health food person by any stretch of the imagination, but with the past couple weeks of extreme anxiety and panic, it’s like the only things my body could tolerate were fresh fruits and vegetables. Everything else made me nauseous. So thanks for the suggestion, maybe keeping the unprocessed-food trend going will continue to help me feel better.

[Tedddy]

This is great advice. Everyone knows they should eat healthier, but for those of us who suffer from mental illnesses, it can make a world of difference. It may not be the "cure" for anxiety, but I've also found that cutting gluten, dairy, sugar, and caffeine from my diet helps tremendously. The trouble is that we often eat to help deal with the anxiety or depression, but then the crappy food we eat makes it worse. A cycle. Good reminder!