Drug-free anxiety prevention

According to a 2002 study, anxiety disorders are the most prevalent of psychiatric disorders, however less than 30 percent of sufferers seek treatment. Symptoms may include feelings of dread, nervousness, heart palpitations, dizziness, sweating, hot flashes and shortness of breath, among others.

Anxiety is entirely treatable both behaviorally or physiologically. Dr. Susan Mendelsohn shared a few techniques on eDiets to prevent or lessen anxiety:

• Relaxation Strategies: Meditation, relaxation, visualization and imagery are powerful tools worth learning.
• Positive Self-Talk: Self affirmations and optimism works.
• Train Yourself: Become aware of your physiological symptoms of anxiety (dizziness, racing heart) and use them to spark a relaxation response.
• Take Charge: Remember anxiety symptoms can't hurt you. Make an effort to control your response to the symptoms. Literally take charge of your reactions.
• Don't Catastrophize: Stop negative thoughts -- adopt an "I think I can" mentality.
• Take Care of Yourself: Sleep, eat healthy, workout, enjoy free time.
• Learn about Your Triggers: Identify what sets off your anxiety and either find an alternate route or come up with a plan to face the situation.

Remember, anxiety can be treated with medication. Call your doctor if anxiety is out of control.