Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues, with millions worldwide suffering from it.
On the surface level, it can manifest as fear, worry, and panic. But below that is almost always a deeper root of negative thought patterns and beliefs about ourselves and our worthiness.
And if it remains unchecked, it can lead to stress and tension, damaging our mental and physical health.
In 2019, roughly 6% of the US population was treated for anxiety disorders. Pharmacy data reveal that over 3% of Americans (all ages - children and adults) filled a prescription for anti-anxiety medication in 2019 (and these numbers don't include government-sponsored benefits). The highest percentage was among women between 45 and 64, with 10.4% filling prescriptions.
There is absolutely a time and place for medication, especially for people dealing with debilitating anxiety. But not every person, nor all types of anxiety, requires drugs for relief, especially if caught early. Fortunately, we can do a few things to manage our anxiety — to either prevent the need for medication or to support pharmaceutical measures.
One of them is using positive affirmations, which can help reframe our negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier and more empowering ones.
Repetition of positive statements can provide a sense of tranquility and serenity. At times, the sayings may seem like wishful thinking. However, science shows that they can help break the anxiety cycle and help us move forward.
To help out, we've compiled 45 positive affirmations for anxiety relief that can help you reframe your thoughts and ultimately transform your life. Utilize them with grounding techniques and/or mindful meditation, and they will have even more of an impact in reducing your anxiety and stress levels.
10 General Affirmations to Help Relieve Anxiety
It can be challenging to remain positive when life throws you a curveball. Here are ten affirmations that can help remind you of your inner strength and capacity to handle any situation.
- I am capable and strong.
- I have the power to make wise decisions that will benefit me and those around me.
- I accept that life has its ups and downs, but I choose to focus on the positive.
- I have the courage and resilience to face any challenge.
- I trust that I can handle whatever comes my way with grace and determination.
- I have the ability to turn adversity into opportunity.
- I am open to learning from my mistakes and growing from them.
- Every day, I have the opportunity to choose happiness.
- I can practice self-care and be compassionate to myself and others.
- I have the power to create the life I desire.
10 Affirmations to Calm Down Quickly
When you feel anxiety rising, it can be tempting to spiral downward quickly and become overwhelmed. Instead, try repeating these ten affirmations to yourself while practicing deep breathing or any other relaxation technique that works for you to help calm down quickly and reduce your stress levels.
- I am safe, and everything is okay.
- I release any fear or worry from my body and mind.
- This, too, shall pass.
- I have done this before and can do it again.
- I choose to take control of my emotions and reactions.
- I am relaxed and peaceful at this moment.
- I will take things one step at a time.
- I inhale peace and exhale worry.
- My thoughts and feelings do not control me.
- This feeling is only temporary.
15 Affirmations for Anxiety Sufferers
- I am filled with peace and calm.
- I embrace the uncertainty and move forward with courage.
- My mind is strong, and my body is healthy.
- I am surrounded by support and love.
- I choose to be positive in every situation.
- My fears do not define me.
- I am loved and accepted for who I am.
- I find strength in adversity.
- Look at me go! I can do it all.
- All is well with me.
- I trust my intuition and allow it to guide me.
- I am capable of creating a healthy, happy life for myself.
- My thoughts are my greatest allies.
- I am free from fear and full of courage.
- I choose to live in the present moment with an open heart.
10 Affirmations for Social Anxiety
- I am allowed to take up space and be seen.
- I have the right to make mistakes and learn from them.
- I am different and unique, and that is OK.
- I am safe in the company of others.
- I have the power to choose how I react in social situations.
- I am capable of finding healthy, meaningful relationships.
- Others do not determine my worth.
- People assume I cannot do this, but I know I can, and I will.
- I love, and I am loved.
- I like myself, and that is enough.
Positive affirmations can do more than just help you relieve anxiety. You may also be interested in these other encouraging affirmations to help bring more joy and positivity into your life.
We have more positive mantras and lots of personal growth, self-improvement, and career development resources in our free members’ area.
