Tips for dealing with feelings of anxiety

We all feel anxious occasionally – that fear that something bad’s about to happen, which usually passes quickly even if it’s made our heart beat faster.

However, sometimes these feelings and thoughts don’t go away so easily. If they don’t, they can have a big impact on our wellbeing. 

If you have dementia, then of course you might have anxieties about having the condition. But anxiety could also be linked to upsetting things that have happened in the past, or current problems with relationships, money or other health conditions. 

What can you do if you feel anxious? 

It’s surprising how much talking about our worries and fears can help us to deal with them.

This could be with a friend or relative, but if it feels too sensitive for that – or if it’s about something traumatic – then speak to a professional counsellor or psychotherapist. 

Being physically active can reduce anxiety, as can group activities – like Singing for the Brain – or spending time in nature. A healthy diet and drinking less alcohol or caffeine could also help. 

If you’re worried about feelings of anxiety, then talk to your doctor. Alternative therapies like aromatherapy, acupuncture, massage and herbal medicines also help some people. 

Your tips to help with anxiety

Ellen Turner says,

‘When I get any episodes of anxiety, I try to steer myself into art. I find it’s brilliant therapy and can lose myself for hours.

‘Also, as I lost my driving licence, I mobility scooter now to get out and relax.’ 

Jane R says,

‘I’ve downloaded an app called Calm. It has guided meditations, short or long.

‘It has saved my life and helped sleep in spite of all the thoughts whirling around in my head.’ 

ged626red says,

‘I use a tip I got from an Empowered Conversations course online and it seems to help my wife. I tell her to breathe in, then hold for four–five seconds and then breathe out, and then repeat five times.

‘It seems to work as it concentrates her mind and stops her lips trembling.’ 

Dunroamin says,

‘I feel that my cold water swimming keeps many feelings in perspective and contributes greatly to my general wellbeing.’ 

mikeb2 says,

‘I have meditated for years now morning and night – even for a few minutes can help tremendously with anxiety – followed by occasionally mindfulness walking.

‘My memory clinic consultant has constantly remarked how well I cope with what I have, and still at work.’ 

Sylvie1 says,

‘One of the most beneficial things for me emotionally is dance movement psychotherapy. It’s not cheap but I have a two-hour session once a month when I can be myself, express my frustration, stress, fear etc, both verbally and in moving to music.

‘I can go into a session in great distress, on my knees mentally and physically, and emerge feeling lighter, nourished with recharged batteries.’