Anxiety

There is a difference between feeling anxious and having an anxiety disorder. It is normal to feel nervous when facing a new or challenging experience. These feelings; however, should not disrupt your everyday activities. Feelings of excessive worry, distorted thinking, excessive perfectionism, excessive niceness, unresolved regret, and guilt are all symptoms of anxiety disorders.

I may have anxiety. What should I do?

• Identify triggers: In many instances, feelings of anxiety or panic attacks can be closely linked to “triggering” experiences or situations. These can be frequent, like going to the grocery store or public speaking, or infrequent, like seeing a former abuser. Start with identifying and understanding your triggers. Pay attention to your feelings of anxiety; when they start, where you are, and how they make you feel. Identifying and addressing your triggers can be key in attacking the causes of your anxiety, rather than just managing the symptoms.
• Calm your body: Your mental health is linked to your physical well-being. Exercising, eating right, avoiding caffeine, and getting enough sleep will all help ease your anxiety. It can also be helpful to learn proper relaxation exercises like therapeutic breathing or yoga. Seasider Sports offers regular yoga sessions, and BYU–Hawaii’s Counseling Services offers relaxation techniques.
• Take time for self-care: Prioritize your mental health. It is absolutely critical that you take time out of your schedule for self-care; read a book, listen to music, write in your journal, go on a walk outside, say a prayer, talk to a friend, clean your room, take a shower, etc. Find activities that relax you and redirect your thoughts to a positive place.
• Seek professional help: You do not need to fight anxiety alone. BYUH offers free counseling for students through Counseling Services located in the Lorenzo Snow Administration Building Room 202. You can also speak to your Bishop or church leader who can direct you to other resources. There are many different kinds of medication, counseling services, and therapy options available to address your specific challenges.

Additional Resources

BYU–Hawaii Counseling Services
(808) 675-3518
counseling.byuh.edu
Lorenzo Snow Administration Building Room 202

BYUH offers free counseling for students through Counseling Services. Take advantage of this resource by calling, emailing, visiting their website, or stopping by their office.