My Anxiety Battle Plan

Overcoming an anxiety disorder takes time, patience, support and a plan. My person plan looks something like this:

• One hour session with a psychologist every two weeks. My psychologist provides great structure and guidance. My visits help to keep me focused on the goal of recovery.

• Exposure Therapy. Exposure therapy is exactly what it sounds like, therapy by exposing yourself to situations that create anxiety. With this I have started small, like going to restaurants I know. The goal is to continually expand my comfort zone to theaters, shopping centers and concert venues.

• Mind & Body. It is important to treat both the mind and body so part of my program includes daily yoga and cardio work.

• Relaxation. I purchased several relaxation CDs to help relax when stress and anxiety get the best of me.

• Balance. My doctor thinks, and I agree, that it is extremely important to maintain a healthy balance between recovery and life. Recovery needs to be a focus but should not define who I am nor be the primary focus of my day.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

  • Daily Mood Survey - This tool is used to track the physical manifestations of anxiety. It has been very useful in helping me identify that not every day is the worst anxiety day ever.
  • Daily Mood Log - This tool is used to identify and challenge the cognitive distortions that feed an anxiety disorder.