In today’s world, a large percentage of people of all ages and backgrounds suffer from anxiety. While anxiety can manifest in any circumstances, it can be especially debilitating during times of personal crisis. Keep reading for some helpful ways to cope.

Pray

This particular course of action may not be for everyone, but whether you identify as religious or not, prayer and worship are powerful tools for coping with adversity. For many, it helps to have a reminder that, in the long run, much of the trials and tribulations of everyday life are relatively insignificant. There are many options for connecting to a religious practice, from pursuing an online bible study program to joining a faith community.

Exercise

Physical activity has numerous physical and mental health benefits. While you may think of exercise primarily as a means to keep weight under control, studies have shown that those who do some form of exercise on a regular basis enjoy more energy, greater alertness and reduced levels of stress and anxiety. You don’t have to be a high-level athlete to enjoy these benefits: incorporating exercise into your daily life can be as easy as going for a walk around the block each morning or doing some push-ups and sit-ups in your living room while you watch TV in the evening.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Anxiety is a lot more manageable when your physical body is well-nourished. It helps to keep nutritious and energizing snacks, such as hard boiled eggs, fresh produce and peanut butter crackers, on hand so that it’s easy to grab a quick boost when you need it. There’s nothing wrong with indulging in sweets and junk food once in a while, but regular healthy meals are essential for staying in a good frame of mind.

Anxiety may be a common problem, but dealing with it is certainly not easy. Try to manage your expectations, and don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family or a mental health professional for extra support.