Depression has become the true plague of the 21st century, with symptoms that are often invisible and, worse, underestimated by others. The result is social disorientation and decreased productivity at best, and, at worst, a rise in tragic fatalities when things spiral out of control. Sometimes, talking to a specialist plays an essential role in resolving such situations.
In our daily lives, we all suffer from a lack of two crucial things: silence and personal space. Upon waking, we pick up our phones and get pulled into an information stream: from phone screens to billboards, car horns to the hum of household appliances. When we disrupt our sleep cycle, we deprive ourselves of a vital chance to rest and reset.
Panic attacks, chronic fatigue syndrome, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and even schizophrenia are far more prevalent in large cities. If you or a loved one experience sudden bursts of energy, overwhelming enthusiasm, or scattered speech, remember that this could be a sign to consult a professional. If you’ve been down for weeks, seeing the world only in dark colors, that’s also a reason to seek help.
It’s critically important to get enough sleep and detach from the information overload. Time spent in real conversations with family is especially valuable today. Whether we want to or not, modern life pushes us into a race. Our internal resources can renew, but only if we devote time to recharging.
Success doesn’t guarantee happiness. Looking back, you might realize you’ve achieved a lot, that you can afford a reasonable lifestyle, that people love and support you, that your loved ones are healthy and close by, that you’re living a life many would envy. But still, there’s an emptiness inside. Why do so many millionaires engage in seemingly irrational acts? Perhaps because nothing seems impressive anymore.
Living in Constant Anxiety
Many women, at some point, struggle with self-acceptance. Women are often inherently self-critical and anxious by nature. But living in constant anxiety is a heavy burden, affecting not just you but also those close to you.
The root of anxiety lies in insecurity. In what specifically? That varies for everyone. There are countless sources: worrying about health, children, parents, the future, finances, work, career, parenting, a partner’s fidelity, judgment at work, others’ opinions, what to make for dinner, gaining or losing weight, eating something sweet, and on and on.
But what does this anxiety actually bring us besides stress? Wouldn’t it be better to learn to accept ourselves, our loved ones, and life’s circumstances, and live with calmness and harmony?
Anxiety, burnout, and the fallout from workaholism are the realities we live in. Stress is one of the most harmful ailments of our time, and until we learn to manage it, we won’t be able to live fully, regardless of wealth or good health.
So, what should you do if you feel a wave of anxiety, are going through a tough time at work, or just had an unpleasant conversation with a partner?
Simple Techniques to Reduce Anxiety:
- Recall the Good: Stanford University conducted an interesting experiment where stressed participants kept a gratitude journal. Their anxiety levels dropped by 27%. Try, in tough moments, to open a notebook and list seven to ten things you’re grateful for at that moment—like “sunny weather,” “a nice conversation with mom yesterday,” or “a delicious morning coffee.” A gratitude journal helps you focus and releases endorphins.
- Call a Friend: Talking with loved ones lowers cortisol, the stress hormone. If you worry about burdening a friend with an untimely call or your bad mood, think twice. Just reach out. It will quickly bring you back to the present and help you relax, even if just briefly.
- Repetitive Actions: Any rhythmic movements help to calm you. Try dancing, tapping your favorite song’s rhythm with your fingers, or simply chewing gum. Repetitive actions send a signal to your brain that “everything’s fine,” helping reduce stress quickly.
Psychologists recommend regular meditation, read my post about my meditation experience, getting plenty of sleep, and doing breathing exercises. Additionally, go for massages, take relaxing baths, and eat well. These practices are beneficial on an ongoing basis.
The Proven Path to Happiness: Practicing Gratitude
Being grateful doesn’t mean waiting until everything is perfect; it means appreciating what you already have. When we practice gratitude, life feels richer, and we feel happier. It doesn’t matter where you start—you might feel like you have nothing and no one to be grateful for. But if you think about it, every one of us is incredibly fortunate.
Do you have eyes to see? Ears to hear? Hands, legs to move? Clean water to drink? Enough food and warmth? Do you have family, friends, acquaintances? If your answer to most of these questions is “yes,” then you have a lot to be thankful for—be it to the universe, existence, or God.
Gratitude focuses our attention on what we already have, inherently making us happier. Over time, it helps us notice the good in any life situation more often.
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