When Coping with Anxiety, Here’s How to Get Things Done

Please be aware that the following tips are not a replacement for expert medical help. While it may be attractive to assume that eight straightforward strategies can sufficiently tackle any ailment, this is simply not true. Therefore, if you are suffering from any type of mental health issue, it is vital that you seek the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner so that you can receive the most effective treatment. On a personal note, I was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder a year ago, and since then, I have employed several techniques to help me manage my condition and lead a healthy, productive life.

During the Autumn of 2022, I started to consider the possibility that I might be struggling with a mental health disorder. This was an idea that I had not previously encountered. The rigorous workload and the pressure to produce results rapidly in a technical field that I had limited knowledge of caused an emotional response that was more severe than anything I had ever encountered.

I started to have nightly incidents of heart palpitations, accompanied by a loss of appetite and a growing feeling of panic. Recognizing that something was amiss yet being unable to determine its cause was incredibly exasperating. It wasn’t until a friend suggested that I might be grappling with an anxiety disorder that I began to investigate the condition. However, as time went on, my symptoms became more severe, prompting me to seek out the recommendations and guidance of a mental health expert.

When you are unwell but uncertain about the cause of your unease, it can be quite frustrating.

Anxiety disorders are a collection of mental illnesses characterized by an excessive level of apprehension and fear. While it is normal for individuals to feel anxious or uneasy occasionally, particularly when confronted with a daunting task or getting ready for an interview, those who have an anxiety disorder may experience these sentiments for prolonged periods, disrupting their ability to perform tasks. According to specialists, anyone can develop an anxiety disorder or another mental illness at any point in their life, caused by environmental stimuli, possibly even hereditary factors, and alterations in the brain’s hormonal equilibrium.

While medicinal treatment is frequently the most practical approach to address any health problem, I have chosen not to follow this path in my current situation. Nonetheless, I have taken it upon myself to explore and keep up-to-date on alternative techniques that can help me stay productive despite my condition. As a result, I have listed some items that have been particularly useful in assisting me in this pursuit.

  • Find the time when you are most calm and focused to accomplish your tasks.

    As I struggled with persistent anxiety, especially in the mornings, I realized that working during the afternoon and evening hours was the most effective approach for me to finish my work.
  • Set up a schedule and make an effort to stick to it.

    Most of the time, excessive worrying can hinder one’s ability to take constructive action. Having a routine can help minimize this, as it allows your mind to function in a routine manner, allowing you to focus solely on accomplishing each task in order. As a result, this can reduce the time spent fretting and increase the time devoted to productivity. This is why it is essential to face your fears and take action. When I realized that I was having trouble adhering to my schedule, I reached out to a reliable accountability partner for assistance in keeping me on track.
  • Request additional time for completing tasks, and take breaks whenever necessary.

    It is advisable to set aside six days to complete a task, even if it can be completed in just four days. This is advantageous for both you and your team members, as it helps to avoid needless frustration. Additionally, it is recommended that you take regular breaks throughout the process to ensure that you can work with a clear and focused mind.
  • Regularly do something you enjoy outside of work.

    It is easy to underestimate the powerful impact that outdoor physical exercise can have, but it can be immensely beneficial. Anxiety and depression are often linked, and I have personally dealt with both. To assist me in managing my mental health, it was critical for me to go to the gym on a regular basis. Additionally, participating in charitable endeavors such as volunteering or aiding others can be advantageous. It is important to establish a routine by setting aside specific times each week, month, and year for these activities.
  • Seek advice from an expert

    Many individuals tend to perceive therapy or counselling as a fast and easy solution to their problems; however, it can take more than a few sessions to gain clarity about a specific issue and ultimately improve one’s life. To achieve this, individuals must be prepared to tackle the demanding task of investigating and addressing the trauma that is causing their negative emotions in order to ultimately eliminate the root cause of these emotions. Professional counselling can offer the guidance and assistance required to help individuals navigate through these challenging issues and ultimately implement positive changes in their lives.
  • The significance of having a support system

    Dealing with mental health problems can be challenging, as individuals with mental illnesses often isolate themselves and strive to maintain an appearance of calmness. This can make it challenging to detect any potential issues that may arise. Having a network of supportive friends who are knowledgeable about one’s condition and can check in, inquire about one’s last episode, or its cause can provide a significant source of comfort and support.
  • Avoid anything that exacerbates your condition.

    It is crucial to pinpoint what triggers your anxieties, whether it be people, places, or time of day. This is an important measure to control your anxiety levels, as neglecting to do so may result in extended recovery periods following stressful situations. By monitoring the factors that influence your mental health, you can do yourself a favour and better manage your anxiety.
  • Remember your strength and resilience.

    It is crucial to keep in mind that you have the ability to overcome anxiety. It is easy to succumb to the belief that your efforts and capabilities are unworthy of recognition, but it is important to realise that this is just a mindset and not necessarily reflective of reality. Personally, I have discovered that while it is impossible to entirely eradicate worry, I can effectively manage it by being courageous and embracing the challenge it presents.

You might find this related article about mental health in employees helpful: Strategies that May Help Your Employees’ Mental Health

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