While there is definite overlap between stress and anxiety, the two emotions come from two different places. David Spiegel, Stanford University’s associate chair of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, says that with stress, we know what’s worrying us but with anxiety we become less aware of what we are anxious about and we start to feel anxious about being anxious.

Stress and anxiety can both trigger rapid breathing and muscle tension. Sometimes anxiety turns into a panic attack, which brings about more severe symptoms, including chills, headaches, hot flashes and chest pains. We all feel stress or anxiety from time to time. However, if it begins to take over your life, it could be an anxiety disorder.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in every year, that is more than 18% of our population.

If you are struggling with an anxiety disorder it is not uncommon to feel alone and misunderstood. People may view anxiety as a weakness or even a fault. They may comment that "there is nothing to worry about" or that you "should just let it go". If it were only that easy for people who have an anxiety disorder. Some studies show that there are biological explanations for some anxiety disorders. Here are ten tips to help manage anxiety.

  • 1

    Take a Time-Out

    When we feel anxious its best to try activities such as Practicing yoga, listening to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from the problem helps clear our minds.

  • 2

    Eat Well-Balanced Meals

    It's important for many reasons to not skip any meals. Also keep energy-boosting snacks on hand.

  • 3

    Limit Alcohol and Caffeine

    When consumed too often, alcohol and caffeine can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks.

  • 4

    Get Enough Sleep

    It is important to make sure we are getting enough sleep because when stressed, our body needs additional sleep and rest.

  • 5

    Exercise Daily

    In order to help feel good and maintain good health it’s important that we exercise daily and stay active to keep our mind clear.

  • 6

    Take Deep Breaths

    When feeling stressed or nervous it is always a good idea to take a step back and Inhale and exhale slowly.

  • 7

    Have A Laugh

    A good laugh every now and then can go a long way. Do something every day that makes you laugh or feel good.

  • 8

    Get Involved

    It sometimes helps to volunteer or find another way to be active in our local community, which can create a support network and gives us a break from everyday stress. Staying connected to friends and having a purpose can help diminish anxiety.

  • 9

    Learn What Triggers Your Anxiety

    Sometimes what causes our anxiety is Is work, family, school, or something else we can identify?  It sometimes can help to write in a journal when we feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern.

  • 10

    Do Your Best

    Instead of aiming for perfection, which isn't possible, we should be proud of however close we get.

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