Living with an Anxiety Disorder

Reading time: 2 min

In most cases, the symptoms are usually reduced in patients with an anxiety disorder who receive the proper treatment. However, some people who suffer an anxiety disorder may continue to have some symptoms after treatment.

In all these cases, there are several strategies that can help the person coexist with their anxiety.

Dizzy person after bus ride

Maintaining a regular routine. It's important to not allow anxiety take over your day-to-day life. This means those affected must make an effort to maintain their activities without trying to avoid situations that lead to anxiety. For example, if you’ve managed to start taking the tube to work again after treatment, even if it still makes you a bit anxious, it's essential to keep doing it so the anxiety gradually fades.

Man running; regular physical exercise

Exercising. Regular physical activity is recommended for almost everyone, including those with anxiety disorders. In fact, some scientific studies conclude that physical exercise can help reduce and relieve anxiety symptoms.

Apple with a "tic"

Having good eating and sleeping habits. Maintaining proper eating and sleeping habits is essential to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. Not getting enough sleep over time can lead to irritability or stress, which can make anxiety symptoms worse.

Hot drink mug

Do not consume stimulants in excess. The use of stimulants such as coffee in high amounts and for long periods can increase anxiety levels.

Cannabis, pills and syringe crossed out

Avoiding harmful substances. Some people with anxiety disorders may use substances such as alcohol or cannabis to relieve the discomfort caused by certain symptoms. Although this might provide short-term relief, regular use can lead to other serious issues. 

Two women hugging or kissing

Share discomfort with the surrounding environment. Some people can benefit from sharing their discomfort with the people around them or with support groups. It is important for patients to relive their discomfort and it can also help the people surrounding the patient to identify the first symptoms of a relapse.

Correct pills

Following the treatment plan. Adhering to treatment guidelines is crucial for managing anxiety symptoms. Some people with anxiety disorders may need to take medication for extended periods. In these cases, it’s common to lose motivation, consider stopping treatment, or become tired of side effects. It’s very important to share these concerns with your healthcare team so that the best treatment options can be considered.

Family talking

The importance of social support. A strong supportive network can help manage stressful situations, which in turn may reduce the risk of relapse.

Substantiated information by:

Blanca Garcia Delgar
Eduard Forcadell López
Luisa Lázaro García
Miquel Àngel Fullana Rivas
Sara Lera Miguel

Published: 29 January 2019
Updated: 13 October 2025

The donations that can be done through this webpage are exclusively for the benefit of Hospital Clínic of Barcelona through Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica and not for BBVA Foundation, entity that collaborates with the project of PortalClínic.

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