Reducing Anxiety

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You can reduce anxiety and stress in your life by:

Taking slow, deep breaths.
Soaking in a warm bath.
Listening to soothing music.
Taking a walk or doing some other exercise.
Meditating or praying.
Taking a yoga class.
Having a massage or back rub.
Drinking a warm, nonalcoholic, noncaffeinated beverage.

Changing some of your everyday habits also can reduce stress in your life.

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Limit or eliminate caffeine and nicotine. Both caffeine and nicotine can trigger a panic attack in some people.
Avoid alcohol. It can cause sleep problems and depression. Drinking alcohol also can trigger a panic attack in some people.
Avoid using illegal drugs such as marijuana, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), sedatives, cocaine, and amphetamines (for example, speed). These can trigger a panic attack in some people.
Reduce or eliminate the use of certain nonprescription medications, such as some medicines used to treat colds. These can trigger a panic attack in some people.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 15, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.