This is what triggers your anxiety

This is what triggers your anxiety

22-11-2021

Many people suffer from anxiety. But you'd never guess it because they develop their own coping mechanisms and keep their worries to themselves. But when anxiety becomes overwhelming, it sometimes turns into a full-blown panic attack which is very distressing. If you experience anxiety and panic attacks, Bach Flowers Mix 85 helps you to feel calmer and in control.

The causes of anxiety and panic attacks are not always clear. But if you can identify the emotions, experiences or events that trigger anxiety symptoms, you can learn to manage them or avoid them altogether.

Common anxiety triggers

1. Health problems

An upsetting health diagnosis is one of the most common anxiety triggers, and anxiety caused by health worries can be overwhelming. But you can reduce its impact by working with your doctor or a therapist and learn to manage the emotions triggered by your diagnosis.

2. Medication

Some over the counter and prescription drugs can trigger anxiety symptoms, including:

• Cough medicines
• Weight loss medication
• Contraceptive pills

They may contain ingredients that can make you feel unwell or uneasy and trigger anxiety symptoms. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist to find an alternative treatment that won't make your anxiety worse.

3. Caffeine

Studies have found that people with social anxiety and panic disorder are more likely to find that caffeine can trigger anxiety symptoms. So avoid drinks containing caffeine or try caffeine-free versions of coffee, tea and cola.

4. Low blood sugar

If you skip meals, your blood sugars may drop too low, and you might feel shaky, agitated and anxious. Remember to keep some healthy snack to hand when you're too busy to stop for a meal.

5. Negative thoughts

If you think of yourself in negative terms when something goes wrong, making you frustrated or upset, the negative language you use may trigger anxiety. Learning to replace negative thinking with positivity will help to control your anxiety levels.

6. Money worries

Debt, unexpected bills and fears about future finance are all common anxiety triggers. The best way to deal with these triggers is to seek advice from someone whose judgement you trust. Whether a friend, a family member or a professional financial adviser, having someone to guide you in making financial decisions will reduce stress.

7. Social occasions

If you suffer from social anxiety, an event where you're required to interact with strangers can be a trigger. You might feel tempted to avoid social occasions, but then you'll be missing out on many opportunities. Taking a companion with you can help to give you confidence. A therapist can also advise on techniques to help you cope.

8. Relationship problems and other conflicts

Arguments and relationship problems are common triggers for anxiety. If conflict triggers you, conflict resolution strategies may be helpful.

9. Chronic stress

Chronic or long term stress can lead to worsening symptoms of anxiety and a host of other health issues. When you're constantly stressed, you may develop unhealthy habits such as skipping meals, drinking alcohol and sleeping poorly, behaviours that may also trigger anxiety.

10. Personal anxiety triggers

A bad memory, a place, a smell or a song: a personal trigger is something that reminds you of a traumatic event. People with PTSD ( post-traumatic stress disorder) often find that anxiety is triggered by something in the environment - for example, a loud bang may remind them of gunfire or a car crash.

It can take time to identify personal triggers, but it's essential so that you can learn coping mechanisms to overcome them.

Habits to reduce anxiety

Making some simple changes to your lifestyle and adopting healthy habits can help to keep your anxiety under control.

• Make sleep a priority

Sleep deprivation can cause anxiety, so try to get 7 - 9 hours of sleep a night. Establishing an evening routine will help you to sleep better. Turn off your screens for a couple of hours before bedtime and avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening.

• Exercise

Make time for exercise in your daily schedule. Whether cycling, running, or just a quick walk, exercise is a great way to boost endorphins and reduce stress.

• Meditate

Meditating for five minutes every day can help you stop worrying about the past and the future and be attentive to the present.

• Minimise your use of social media

Some people worry about posting something every day and then get even more anxious if they don't get enough likes. Comparing yourself to others who seem to be happier, wealthier or more attractive can also trigger anxiety, so try to limit the time you spend on social media.

• Keep a journal

Writing a journal can be an excellent way of stopping our thoughts from racing, one of the most common symptoms of anxiety. And keeping track of your thoughts and feelings can help you to identify your anxiety triggers.

What foods can help reduce anxiety?

Certain foods have been shown to promote brain health and reduce symptoms of anxiety. Try including the following in your diet:

 • Salmon

Salmon is rich in vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, substances that are good for brain health.

• Chamomile

Chamomile contains antioxidants that protect against inflammation and also promotes sleep.

• Turmeric

Turmeric contains the antioxidant compound curcumin, which seems to help the brain synthesise the omega-3 fatty acid DHA.

• Dark Chocolate

The flavonols in dark chocolate increase serotonin levels and help improve blood flow to the brain. So a few squares of chocolate will boost your ability to cope with stress and anxiety.

• Yoghurt

Scientists increasingly link gut health with mental health, and yoghurt is an excellent source of probiotics and healthy bacteria. A healthy gut improves brain function and can help you feel calmer.

A final thought

While there's often no quick fix for anxiety symptoms, there are many ways to treat the condition. The first step in managing anxiety is to identify any triggers; you can then learn mechanisms to help you cope. However, if your anxiety is so severe that it affects your daily life, seek help from a doctor or therapist.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc-20350961#:~:text=Anxiety%20disorder%20due%20to%20a,%E2%80%94%20even%20ordinary%2C%20routine%20issues.

https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/panic-disorder/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322652

Marie Pure