Pudd* Peace & Pout: This is how I do

Action plan for dealing with anxiety

This is my personal plan of action, this is NOT a medically recommended itinerary, its just a process that is working for me at this moment in time. It must be working as last night was the first evening that I managed to sleep relatively well, I feel that bit more relieved too... Only taken about a week and half!

Everyone has things to do. Everyday.

Otherwise life doesn't happen... Well it does but would be a complete mess if you didn't sort it out, that is bad for anxiety. It makes the jumble in your head worse.

The hard bit is, getting through the jumble to get on with the day and make it a successful one.

How?

Lists. That is the answer my friend. Lists, post it notes, diary use and constant checking!

Literally do as this little list dude has on him!

It is you bible for getting through. I start off by writing down each section on each page:

Home

Work

Training

Shopping

Charity

Then on each page write down EVERYTHING that needs to be done. As my friend said even the washing up! I've even written showering and doing my hair. It sounds odd but just think of the time it takes up in your day when you're tired and struggling.

Once I have compiled sections, I then plan the next couple of days. I don't plan the whole week as if it goes off course... It could lead to utter melt down! A couple days of planning is enough and an understanding of it not going ok or to plan is necessary.

Write each bit down in bullet point form - NO TIME LIMITS - don't put pressure on yourself.

Make sure you tick it off as you go. The process of this is extremely therapeutic!

One thing that is of importance while suffering, its a must to get outside and get fresh air into those lungs. You may not feel like it, but do try. I find having a mooch round the garden, sitting outside or going to town with a family member helps no end, I like walking along the river too.

Keep hydrated by drinking water. Stay away from alcohol as that can propel the bad feelings. Eat as well as possible - the odd bit of chocolate is fine.

If you go full on diving into the local 'all you can eat buffet' and keep driving thru for 'a coffee' (we all know you're getting a cheese burger!!) you'll just end up feeling more rubbish as you will put weight on and its just a circle of self torture. Don't be a rabbit and just have lettuce though.

Get in the kitchen and grab a recipe book. Cook something you never have before. I find cooking and baking a retreat. My mind forgets. I enjoy every moment.

Another thing I am doing is having a proper clear out. We actually need a skip! Instead of the skip, I'm putting things onto eBay and ding a car-boot. We have lots of new/unused items. I also make key rings and bracelets. Makes sense to do this, as its helping clear my mind and home!!!