How can I reduce stress and tension in my busy life?
I am reentering college at the age of 23 with a new degree plan, basically starting over, I currently work a 50 hour a week job, I’m job hunting for a part time job and trying to get registered all at once. I keep having horrible anxiety and panic attacks. I need some relaxation techniques and any advice ya’ll can give me!
I’m leaving the full time and going to a part time which means a BIG reduction in pay…
first of all just stop and breathe. its the most important thing of all. perhaps maybe even some medication to calm your nerves down and to help you with the everyday worrisome problems. you just need to make some organization in life. and make sure you set aside some time for yourself.
create a gameplan. once you have an idea down it takes away alot of the stress and it will even help you fell more productive and positive. also try to exercise. do yoga or meditate…..even train to run. trust me it helps. i speak from personal experience lol
Check out guided meditation or self-hypnosis. However, you may be taking on a lot at the same time, and you might want to listen to what you are telling yourself via these anxiety/panic attacks. Are you planning on working a full time job, plus a part time job, plus school? Or are you giving up the full time job for a part time job while you’re in school?
I think you should consider discussing these major changes in your life with a mental health counselor of some kind. There may be free or reduced cost counselors affiliated with your college.
I do think going back to college will pay off in the long run both financially and in terms of your self-esteem.
Good luck to you,
Dana
Hi, firstly well done you for going back to college! The following steps should eliminate (or at least significantly reduce) your panic attacks and anxiety:
1.Breathe properly – if you control your breathing, you control panic. As soon as you notice the signs of anxiety, check your breathing: breathe in slowly through your nose pushing your tummy out (to the count of 5 or so). Breathe out slowly and for a bit longer (to the count of 7 or so) through your mouth. Do not breathe rapidly or shallowly (in the chest area). This will soon restore the balance of oxygen and you will feel a lot better.
2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy! CBT is proven to be the most effective thing for panic attacks, OCD and anxiety etc. It takes a bit of work, but it is super effective. (After 15 years of panic attacks, mine stopped completely). You can speak to your doctor about taking a course or you can take a course for free online at: http://www.livinglifetothefull.com
3. Try relaxation exercise tapes (progressive muscular relaxation). They really help if you practise often enough. You can get free downloads if you put "progressive muscle relaxation" into Google (e.g. lots of universities have them as free downloads)
With each step practise makes perfect. (i.e. practise the steps every day, not just when you are feeling bad). You need to put the time aside, but it is time worth spent, trust me! I hope you feel better soon. Best of luck!