Tips for dealing with anxiety/over-reaction to minor things

[RumbleMum]

I have always suffered with anxiety to a greater or lesser degree - generally manageable and since I've had children it's been largely absent.

Recently we've had a bereavement in the family and the anxiety is back again. It's largely manifesting itself as a complete over-reaction to minor things - for example, I've been having discussions with a neighbour over a fence today. We have different opinions about what needs to be done but discussions have been completely amicable and reasonable on both sides and I'm confident we'll find a solution (it's a minor issue anyway).

However, I've found myself so anxious about it and what my neighbours think of me I've found it difficult to work today. I know it's a total over-reaction but can't seem to get things in perspective.

So does anyone have any tips for dealing with this kind of thing? How can I get stuff in perspective?

Oh you poor thing, because constant anxiety is so debilitating. ( don't I know)
So what do I do to combat it.?
I walk every morning whatever the weather. I wear a Fitbit that monitors my steps. I see mums out doing the same thing with prams and pushchairs.
I take Beta blockers when it gets really bad.
If I have to be in a stressful situation I factor in hot baths and an early night, so that I don't get too exhausted.
I use a digital radio with earphones to help me sleep.
I clean, as in on all fours.
I also swim. It is difficult to concentrate on anxiety, when you are trolling along in a pool.
I have completed a Mindfulness course which has also helped a great deal.
You could get referred by your GP, given your history.
I have accepted that I am anxious so I factor in times when I stay at home and do nothing whatsoever.
Hugs..... As you need them. Don't let your anxiety escalate until it turns into depression.
I hope you feel better soon!

Thanks so much - useful tips and the kind words mean a lot. I don't feel it's bad enough to see the GP (it was when I was at university but I'm not that bad any more) so I'm keen to find ways to help myself IYSWIM. I think accepting the situation is a good point too ...

I had a major meltdown at Uni but now I recognise that I am an anxious person. I take steps, as I said, to combat it.

I try manfully( should I say woman fully) not to dwell on the past or wallow in disappointments. Life is full of ups and downs and you die if you worry and you die if you don't worry.
I think that attitude helps because I can make myself so anxious( no one can beat myself up , like me. ) As after all I know all my weak spots.
You have my sympathy because it is so horrible and no one who does not suffer in the same way fully understands.
Hugs