“Someone once told me, ’You can hear your anxiety, but you don’t need to obey it.’ It genuinely set me free.”

"I know this isn’t revolutionary, and plenty of people do it, but what’s most important is that the hobby and media provide comfort. Also, it keeps me from being on my phone."

Author's note: ice or ice-cold water slows your heart rate by triggering your mammalian dive response.

"She'll walk me through my symptoms, slowly and calmly. She will have me test my blood sugar, as I am diabetic. Depending on my symptoms, she will have me test my blood pressure or temperature. Usually, by that time, I am calm again. If it is just a panic attack, or if I really am sick, she will help me determine if I just need a doctor's appointment or if I need urgent care.It's funny how most people with anxiety have anxiety because of 'people,' but sometimes it is a particular person that helps you deal with anxiety."

Author's note: Laughter has many proven benefits. Short-term benefits include activating and relieving your stress response; long-term benefits include pain relief by producing natural painkillers. 

I think the guy at the grocery store thought I was weird.'

'So? You think he'll remember you after the other 287 customers today?? Do YOU remember everything people tell you?'

Author's note: Sour candy can be used as a short-term tool to stop/prevent panic attacks, as the sharp flavor pulls focus from your worry to the very immediate sour taste in your mouth.

"When I feel like way too much is going on, I write down everything going through my head. After that, I walk away to take a breath before coming back to the list and sorting through it. What should I focus on, and what can I come back to?"

"I have a 100-song playlist of just music I love for when I'm stressed out."

Disclaimer: Submissions have been edited for length or clarity.