Individuals that are suffering from the ravages of substance addiction may experience the onset of anxiety during the earlier stages as they take the journey to recovery and attempt to create new strategies for coping. When seeking treatment such as rehab for depression and anxiety, dealing with lifestyle changes, creating new habits and a positive mindset can sometimes seem daunting.
According to motivational speaker Tony Robbins, ” Where focus goes, energy flows.” Let's take a look at four ways to reduce anxiety that may prove helpful during recovery.
Listening to Music — according to the American Anxiety and Depression Association of America, the calming effects of music has been proven as a stress reliever and anxiety reducer. For instance, exercise is instantly more enjoyable and decreases anxiety when accompanied by music.
Yoga — the mind-body practice of yoga cannot only lower the heart rate, reduce stress, but overall anxiety can also be reduced, creating a relaxed state of mind and serenity. Whenever anxiety presents itself, turning to yoga is a beneficial option.
Journaling — one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety, journaling offers an opportunity to capture any anxious feelings that may be present and helps to pinpoint those emotions and how we may be affected at that point in time. By identifying feelings of anxiety on paper, an individual is allowed to set goals and start the path of making lifestyle improvement.
Volunteer — whether visiting a nursing home several times a month or serving as a youth mentor in a church, volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and will place focus on others instead of self. This also presents an opportunity to meet new people, make new friends and create a positive environment, which in turn helps to reduce stress.
Someone who suffers from substance addiction does not have to go it alone. At Pathways, an experienced staff of recovery specialists, therapists and counselors are available to create an individualized program for treatment. For solution-focused therapy options, contact Pathways today where people are treated to become healthy, whole people.
Michelle Amerman is a licensed therapist and President of Pathways Real Life Recovery. Pathways is a mental health counseling and addiction recovery center in Utah. Her treatment approach is based on 30 years' worth of groundwork and has been assessed and validated by pioneers in the field of recovery research.
Pathways Real Life Recovery
8706 South 700 East #205
Sandy, UT 84070
801-895-3006
