Coping Strategies for Men Dealing with Anxiety
Anxiety impacts everyone. It doesn’t seek out men or women specifically, and it can create the same struggles no matter who you are.
However, it’s not uncommon for men to have a harder time dealing with anxiety because of societal norms and expectations. Unfortunately, there are still plenty of stereotypes in place and a mental health stigma that hasn’t completely disappeared.
As a man, recognizing and acknowledging that you’re dealing with anxiety is an important first step when it comes to managing it. Don’t let antiquated ideas keep you from taking care of your mental health and getting the help you deserve.
With that in mind, let’s cover a few coping strategies for men dealing with anxiety that are healthy, safe, and effective.
Be More Mindful
Mindfulness is more than just a mental health buzzword. While it’s seen a lot of growth in popularity over the last few years, that’s largely due to its effectiveness.
Mindfulness is a practice, and it can take time to feel comfortable incorporating it into your routine. But once you do, you’ll start to see the benefits right away. It’s the practice of staying in the moment rather than letting your thoughts carry you elsewhere.
Close your eyes and focus on taking slow, deep breaths. Tune in to your senses. What do you smell, hear, and feel? These are all things that can pull you to the present rather than worrying about the past or future. Here’s another mindfulness exercise to try.
Mindfulness can’t stop anxious thoughts and feelings from coming. But it helps build the ability to step back from overwhelming thoughts and feelings; over time, it teaches you to let those thoughts and feelings pass you by rather than hold onto them.
Get Moving
You undoubtedly know that exercise is good for your physical health. But it can also give your mental health a boost, especially when you’re dealing with anxiety.
Exercise is a natural stress reducer. If you’re struggling with anxious thoughts, going for a light run, taking a swim, or even walking around the neighborhood can help you calm down. It can also serve as a distraction, pulling your focus from your anxiety onto the task at hand. Plus, exercise can naturally boost your mood, so you’re less likely to get “stuck” on whatever fear or worry that’s trying to take over.
Get It Out
One of the best ways to combat the stigma of mental health that many men face is to open up about your struggles.
Anxiety can cause you to withdraw from people and keep you from doing the things you typically love. But, by leaning on your support system and talking about your anxiety with people you trust, you’ll start to take back control and weaken the power anxiety has over you.
If you’re not quite ready to open up to friends and family yet, consider journaling. Write down your worries and what triggered them. Sometimes, getting anxious thoughts out on paper can make them seem more manageable.
Work with a Therapist
While there is no cure for anxiety, there are effective ways of managing anxiety. If you know you’re struggling with anxiety, and you’re ready to overcome it, working with a mental health professional is key.
Chanderbhan Psychological Services
About: Chanderbhan Psychological Services is a therapy practice located in Laredo, Texas. We help individuals and couples who are struggling in different areas of their lives gain the clarity they need to grow and change. We also offer telehealth to individuals located in the wider State of Texas. To read blogs on mental health and relationships, visit our website.
