How to deal with anxiety when working in aesthetics
Sunday 4th June 2023
Lee Pedlar
Dealing with anxiety can be challenging, but there are various strategies and techniques that can help you manage and reduce its impact on your daily life. When we first start out in aesthetics and even the most experienced practitioners will have days where they feel anxious about the days clinic treatments.
Here are some suggestions to help you deal with anxiety:
Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic breathing, to help activate the body's relaxation response. Engaging in relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, or mindfulness can also promote calmness and reduce anxiety.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety. Engage in regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, yoga, or any other form of activity that you enjoy. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters and can help alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Seek Support: Share your feelings with someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, or therapist. Talking about your anxiety can provide a sense of relief and support. Professional therapists or counselors can offer guidance and teach you coping strategies to manage anxiety effectively.
Identify Triggers: Pay attention to situations, events, or thoughts that trigger your anxiety. By recognizing these triggers, you can develop strategies to cope with them or avoid them when possible.
Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation and well-being. This can include getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy, and taking time for yourself.
Challenge Negative Thoughts: Learn to identify and challenge negative or irrational thoughts that contribute to anxiety. Replace them with more positive and realistic thoughts. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques can be helpful in this process.
Limit Stimulants: Reduce or limit your consumption of stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, as they can increase anxiety levels.
Create a Calming Environment: Surround yourself with a calming environment that promotes relaxation. This can include decluttering your space, incorporating soothing colors, playing calming music, or using aromatherapy.
Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices to stay present and grounded. Focus on the present moment rather than worrying about the future. Mindfulness exercises can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
Consider Professional Help: If anxiety significantly affects your daily life or becomes overwhelming, consider seeking professional help. A mental health professional can provide a diagnosis, offer personalized treatment options, and guide you through the process of managing anxiety.
Remember that everyone's experience with anxiety is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It may take time to find the strategies that work best for you. Be patient and kind to yourself throughout the process
if you feel you need more support for your anxiety, please reach out to a medical professional.
here is a link to nhs support: https://nwssp.nhs.wales/covid-19-information/staff-area/looking-after-your-mental-well-being/anxiety/
