I'm really sorry to hear that you're struggling with anxiety, and I want to emphasize the importance of seeking support from a mental health professional. They can provide personalized guidance and assistance based on your specific situation. However, I can offer some general suggestions that may help you cope with anxiety:
Reach out for professional help: Anxiety can be challenging to manage on your own, and a mental health professional can provide effective strategies and support tailored to your needs.
Explore different coping methods: If reality checking has become an anxiety trigger, it's okay to try other coping techniques. Breathing exercises, mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation, or grounding exercises are some alternative methods you can explore.
Distract yourself: Engage in activities that you enjoy and that can help take your mind off anxious thoughts. This might include hobbies, spending time with loved ones, reading, exercising, or listening to music.
Challenge negative thoughts: Practice cognitive reframing, which involves identifying and challenging negative thought patterns. Replace them with more realistic and positive alternatives.
Limit exposure to triggers: If you've identified specific triggers, try to minimize your exposure to them when possible. This might involve setting boundaries or avoiding certain situations that consistently trigger anxiety.
Develop a self-care routine: Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is crucial. Ensure you are getting enough sleep, eating well-balanced meals, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation.
Consider therapy: Different therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), can be helpful for managing anxiety.
Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage anxiety symptoms. If you haven't already, discuss this option with a mental health professional.
Support network: Confide in friends or family members you trust about what you're going through. Sometimes, sharing your feelings with someone supportive can provide relief.
Patience and self-compassion: Remember that healing and managing anxiety take time. Be patient with yourself and practice self-compassion as you navigate this process.
Again, I want to stress the importance of seeking professional help for anxiety. A mental health professional can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your specific needs. Don't hesitate to reach out for help and know that you don't have to face this alone. There are effective treatments available, and many people find relief and learn to manage anxiety with the right support.