Holistic Approach to Anxiety with Functional Medicine

Anxiety can be very convincing. It makes you feel like your worries and fears are unique to you, and that no one else understands. But that's simply not true. Anxiety affects everyone at some point, triggered by real or perceived threats. It's a built-in survival mechanism, a way to keep us alert in danger.

The problem arises when anxiety becomes a regular visitor, even when there's no real danger present. This constant uneasiness can take a toll on your physical and mental health, your mood, and your relationships. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that a staggering 40 million people in the United States struggle with an anxiety disorder.

If anxiety is significantly impacting your daily life, seeking professional help is a great option. Therapists can provide psychotherapy, and doctors might prescribe medication for management. Additionally, exploring functional medicine can offer a holistic approach to anxiety like herbal remedies, nutritional adjustments, or massage therapy.

However, there are also self-management strategies you can implement to feel better, even without seeking professional help. Anxiety isn't an on/off switch, but the choices you make can gradually build a stronger sense of calm. It requires a gentle outlook. This is why a holistic approach to anxiety is a great way to deal with it.

Benefits of Holistic Approach to Anxiety

Addresses the root cause

Traditional medicine often focuses on managing symptoms through medication. A holistic approach looks for underlying causes of anxiety, like stress triggers or nutritional deficiencies, aiming to address them for long-term relief.

Promotes overall well-being

It goes beyond just managing anxiety symptoms. It incorporates practices that improve your physical and mental health, creating a stronger foundation for managing stress and anxiety.

Complementary to traditional treatment

 It can work alongside medication prescribed by a doctor. Techniques like relaxation methods or meditation can enhance the effectiveness of medication and potentially reduce reliance on it over time.

Emphasis on self-care

Holistic approaches empower you with tools and techniques to manage your anxiety independently. You'll learn skills like mindfulness and stress management that benefit you throughout your life.

Variety of options

There's a wide range of practices to choose from, allowing you to find what works best for you. This could include anything from exercise and healthy eating to massage therapy or yoga.

Holistic Approach to Anxiety: Tips & Hacks

Awareness

The first step to managing any emotion is awareness. This simply means noticing what you are feeling and what might have triggered it. It's not about overthinking, but rather a gentle observation without judgment.

So, when anxiety pops up, take a moment to ask yourself: is there a genuine threat here? If so, address it head-on and remove yourself from the situation. But if there's no real danger, try stepping back from the emotional whirlwind. Observe the anxiety like a passing wave, acknowledging it without getting swept away. If the fear is manageable, see if you can sit with it instead of pushing it down. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but that's okay. Just keep reminding yourself to be kind to yourself while staying present with the feeling.

Self- Reflection

Anxious thoughts like "I'm a failure" or "Everyone hates me" can fuel anxiety. When a thought triggers your anxiety, take a step back and question it. Is this thought true? Or is it more like a story you are playing on repeat in your head?  Be honest with yourself about which thoughts are backed by facts and which ones just feel real because they are loud and scary. (Writing these thoughts down can be helpful – revisiting them when you are calmer can offer a clearer perspective.)

Physical Attributes

Anxiety is a prime example of the mind-body connection. When anxious thoughts take hold, they trigger physical reactions like a racing heart, shallow breathing, and a dry mouth. Our mind then misinterprets these physical symptoms as proof that something is seriously wrong, further fueling the anxiety cycle.

Our daily habits can also play a role. For instance, consuming too much caffeine can cause physical sensations that the mind might misinterpret as anxiety. This, in turn, can trigger a cascade of worry and negativity.

Prioritize Relaxation

Practice relaxation techniques regularly, even when you feel calm. Techniques like meditation, mindful breathing, guided imagery, and body scans can all promote relaxation.  The beauty of these practices is that they are portable – you can do them on the bus, while washing dishes, or even at your desk – and require minimal time. Regularly incorporating these techniques into your day, even during calm periods, strengthens your ability to manage stress and anxiety when they arise.

Find Holistic Approach to Anxiety with Nina Ross Functional Medicine

You might feel alone, but millions struggle with anxiety, and Nina Ross Functional Medicine can help.

Why Choose Us for a Holistic Approach to Anxiety?

• We Go Beyond the Band-Aid: Unlike traditional approaches that simply manage symptoms, we take a holistic approach. We dig deep to uncover the root causes of your anxiety, whether it's stress triggers, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies. By addressing these underlying issues, we aim to provide long-term relief.
• Empowering You for Long-Term Wellness: We don't just treat your anxiety; we equip you with the tools to manage it effectively. You'll learn valuable self-care practices like mindfulness and relaxation techniques that empower you to maintain your calm even during challenging times.
• Experienced and Trustworthy Guidance: Dr Nina Ross is a leading Functional Medicine practitioner with a deep understanding of anxiety and its underlying causes. She provides expert guidance and unwavering support throughout your journey to lasting well-being
  

Don't let anxiety control your life. Contact Nina Ross Functional Medicine today and take the first step towards lasting calm and a healthier you.