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Thursday, August 18, 2016

HALT Your Anxiety

After a struggle with panics and anxiety again I took to the internet to look for help. It may sound a strange place to look but personal stories and info videos on Youtube are what I used when I was first diagnosed to help get me through.

I found a video that talked about the H.A.L.T technique when dealing with anxiety. I'm not sure where it originates from but it is mentioned throughout many internet forums and help sites. So why H.A.L.T?

When you feel a panic or stressed you think of HALT. (If stands for hungry, angry, lonely and tired.) You ask yourself if you are feeling hungry, angry, lonely or tired. This helps you focus on your primary needs and yourself. And by dealing with these you will reduce stress. Although anger and loneliness can't always be quickly fixed you can start to address why you feel that way. It helps you look at triggers and if there are things you can change or avoid in your life to help reduce stress. 

Nutritional snacks are best for hunger especially things that are mood boosters like the ones mentioned in my Food vs Depression blog post. Resting can replace sleep when sleeping isn't an option. Just giving yourself a breather and a chance to refuel before you tackle anything. I found it best to HALT in that order. You can't think straight when hungry and you won't sleep with a busy mind. 

Unfortunately I find when I HALT I am all four, mainly because when I am low I don't take care of myself and let things build up which induces stress and anxiety but the stress and anxiety lead to me not caring for myself. Its circles. So what I need to remember and what you can do too is to HALT before you get the point of anxiety, panic or stress. Eat well, get sleep, socialise and do the things that make you feel content. If you take care of your primary needs you will be mentally and physically healthier and more able to deal with stress as you are starting from a better point than if you have an unhealthy lifestyle.

Much love,
Becky xx

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