How Do You Cope With Anxiety and Depression?

It seems that anxiety and depression go hand in hand. Many times they will appear together and at times individually. It may occur due to a loss of a loved one, loss of employment, loss of your home, financial crisis, weight gain and the list can go on and on. We all know that it exists but do you know how to cope with it? Do you know how to handle an anxiety attack or the never ending bouts of depression? Do you walk away because you can't handle the situation or do you fall deeper into the state of depression because of the fear of what's around the corner?

These are very difficult questions and perhaps may not have answers that can help or place a person's mind at ease. However, we must not give up. As a person who has dealt with anxiety and depression on many levels, I can honestly say that you can not find the cure for these conditions on your own. Although anxiety and depression may feel safe at the moment because it is all 'yours' and 'they' possibly couldn't understand; it is far from safe.

One of the very first things you should do if you find yourself suffering from anxiety, depression and stress is to reach out for help. As easy as it may sound, it may in fact be one of the hardest things to do. If you are the person that is witnessing signs of anxiety, depression, withdrawal or worse, then YOU must reach out to that person. Of course that person may push you away or deny any problems but you must not give up. As one who has been there, denial is the first thing we will do. We will often wear a smile on our face so no one will suspect but all along we are falling apart inside, crying out for help.

Another thing that helps and has helped many is journaling. Whether you share your thoughts on paper or on a computer screen it is essential to let out those thoughts. Keeping those thoughts consumed within you will make you close up further which will not allow you to heal. Letting them escape the confines of your mind is a huge step towards healing. Whether or not you share these very precious thoughts is of no concern. Letting out those feelings will allow you to heal.

Changing your diet and exercise routine is another form of outlet for these conditions. When feeling anxious or depressed consider going outside. The change of scenery will help and so will the fresh air. You may enjoy running, jogging or perhaps hitting a punching bag to release those feelings of inadequacy which lead to depression and anxiety. Releasing the negative energy from within will help in the healing process. Just as exercise helps to heal, eating the appropriate foods will help as well. Introducing fruits and vegetables into your diet especially those high in antioxidants will help to release the toxins that have built up in the body.

Getting involved in your community is another way to cope with anxiety, depression and stress. Reaching out to others that may be experiencing the same conditions will help you with your situation as well. Many times when we focus on others needs it will help with our conditions.

There are many more ways to cope with anxiety, depression and stress but for space sake I have limited to the few mentioned above. Most importantly understand that you are not alone. Too often individuals will go to the extreme and turn to drugs or worse the taking of their own life because they feel alone.

If you are experiencing these feelings, please understand that you are NOT alone. If your family doesn't understand, reach out to someone that will listen. If you know of someone that is experiencing these conditions, be patient. But more importantly make yourself available, be there for them, let them vent or cry if necessary. These conditions are not easy for either of the parties involved but can be helped.

Please don't give up.