Using drugs and alcohol will not take away your problems and fears. In the short run, they might make you feel better, but in the long run these addictions will only make things worse.
As a result, here are eight tips on how to manage your persistent fears and anxieties without using drugs and alcohol:
- Take it one day at a time:Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or month, try to focus on today. Each day can provide us with different opportunities to learn new things and that includes learning how to deal with your issues. In addition, you will not feel overwhelmed with everything if you focus on one thing at a time.
- Learn how to manage your fearful thoughts:When experiencing a negative thought, read some positive statements and affirmations that will help lift your spirits and make you feel better. Remember that your fearful thoughts may be exaggerated so balance these thoughts with realistic thinking and common sense.
- Do not do everything all at once:Learn how to break your fears into a series of smaller steps. Completing these smaller tasks one step at a time will make the stress more manageable and increases your chances of success. You will also feel more confident in getting things accomplished rather than worrying about what you need to do.
- Drugs and alcohol are not the answers to your problems: Getting the help you need and learning how to deal with your situation are the most effective ways in managing your fears, anxieties, and addictions. In time, you will become better able to maintain your mental health.
- Managing your anxieties will take some hard work:Trying to avoid your addictions will do nothing in getting rid of your fears and anxieties. Sooner or later, you will have to confront your mental health issues. Remember that all you can do is to do your best each day, hope for the best, and take things in stride.
- Drugs and alcohol can make things difficult:Drugs and alcohol can make your problems even more complicated. Many professionals have said that substance abuse will only add more misery to your situation. Be smart and learn how to cope with your mental health issues the right way.
- Talk to a former addict:If you think that drugs and alcohol will solve your problems, then try talking to someone who has already been down that road. By talking to a former addict, you will get the truth on how substance abuse can ruin your life.
- Take advantage of the help that is available around you:If possible, talk to a professional who can help reduce your fears and anxieties. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insight on how to deal with your current By talking to a professional, a person will be helping themselves in the long run because they will become better able to deal with their problems in the future.
Stan Popovich is the author of the popular managing fear book, “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear.” For more information about Stan’s book and to get some more free mental health advice, please visit Stan’s website at http://www.managingfear.com.