Anxiety is one of the most common mental illnesses in the country, with 40 million people affected, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). Even though there are therapists who know how to treat anxiety, it does not mean that they do not struggle with anxiety as well. A number of therapists described what products they use to treat their own anxiety and better function with everyday life.
Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets can weigh between 3 to 30 pounds, which is heavier than the average quilt. These blankets are great for anxiety as they can put you in a more relaxed state at night, making it easier for you to sleep. They can help ground your body by pushing it downwards while you sleep. Grounding can reduce cortisol production when you sleep, which alleviates stress, insomnia, and pain. They are not too heavy or too hot. It will feel comforting like you are receiving a hug that is putting you to sleep.
Meditation App
If you want to be able to control your breathing but need a guide to get you there, there are meditation apps you can bring with you wherever you go. The Headspace app offers a lot of courses on meditation and special training on how to use meditation for things like stress, anxiety, chronic pain, and maintaining balance. There are also wind downs and stories to help you fall asleep better. You can try Headspace for two weeks before you commit to a year subscription.
A Jigsaw Puzzle
There is a bright, colorful popsicle jigsaw puzzle that you can find on Amazon. Staring at the colors and putting the jigsaw puzzle together can be comforting. You can shut down all devices like your television, computer, or phone to avoid distraction while you play. Just turn on relaxing music and focus your mind on the puzzle. It can help keep your attention, distract you from the racing thoughts in your head, and is not so difficult that it causes you stress.
Finding a healthy distraction can help soothe your mind and body. It is important to remember that while these tools do not replace therapy and medications used to treat mental illness. If anxiety management strategies are not working, it is time to consider professional help.
Everyone is subject to feelings of anxiety, fear, or frustrations that life brings. Therapists with anxiety use a wide array of tools at home to better control their anxiety that can also help their patients. You can use stress-reducing activities at home to provide you with short-term relief in addition to therapy and medication for long-term relief. At Alta Loma, we understand how difficult it is to have anxiety, and we are here to help you. Our transformative treatment center in Georgetown, Texas, offers individualized therapy, medication management, a long-term continuum of care, and therapeutic recreational activities. Please call (866) 457-3843 for more information.
