Stress Center Peer Support

I'm sitting here at my desk constricting my throat. The more I try not to think about it the tighter it gets. I realize this is anxiety but I don't know how to stop the cycle. Any ideas?

Susie, have you tried deep breathing? This should help your muscles relax.

Maybe try some relaxation techniques. Breath slowly, picture yourself somewhere where you find to be serene and peaceful and take a deep slow breath in, hold it for a few seconds and then slowly breath out. Breathing is done from your diaphragm region. Most people breathe to keep their stomach's in, but that is not the right way to breath. And just trying not to think about it well, it is like saying not to look down when you are afraid of heights. Try to put your focus on something else that requires you to be mentally sharp, something you need to concentrate on. I can remember when I tried not to think about something it was worse, but when I placed my focus/attention on something else that it helped so much more because I "got lost" in the activity I was involved in and not just telling myself not to think about something. Hope you feel better!

I have another question. My voice is getting tired and hoarse from doing this. Anybody else have this problem ever?

Whoa. We all 3 posted at the exact same time!!! I'm going to try deep breathing now. Thanks. I don't want to be in for a whole weekend of this. !!!

Maybe try to gargle with some warm, salt water or drink some warm tea (decaf and NO sugar) to soothe your throat. There may be a throat thing going around too. My sisters throat was a bit sore and hoarse yesterday and my hubby's throat was a little sore.