Often times, anxiety happens in situations in which we are forced to face our symptoms right then and there. To be blunt, it sucks having to ride out the feelings of nervousness and panic, for sometimes hours on end, when you simply cannot leave where you are in the moment. Therefore, it is helpful to have some techniques that you can use in order to distract your mind from all of your worry and fear, and, in turn, focus your mind on the present moment.
As a college student, the majority of my anxious endeavors happen in the classroom. The fact that I am required to be in a room for a certain amount of time, despite my anxiety, often enhances my fears. Personally, I find doodling in the classroom helps a lot. Although some might associate doodling with distraction, there are actually several studies that reveal doodling to be an activity that boosts one's focus. Doodling allows me to listen to the lecture, yet busy my body in order to put my anxious energy somewhere else. My doodles often consist of simple lines and scribbles. They are, by no means, beautiful drawings. This simple action simply allows my energy to be focused only on the pen and paper in my hand, and my mental energy to listening to the professor.
People find different techniques that work for them. These include counting certain objects in the room you are in. This can include counting how many chairs are in the room, or counting how many bricks are on the wall. Other people find it most effective to simply breathe and count their breaths. No matter what technique you choose, the point is that each of them allow you to focus your energy in the present moment by doing very simple activities. As a result, your mind will be a little less focused on your anxious thoughts, allowing you to proceed with your day with more ease.
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