Read updated information about the wildfire and smoke situation in Eeyou Istchee.

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What is anxiety?

On this page

Anxiety is a natural body reaction to a threat or a perceived threat.

Everyone experiences it
Normal & happens at certain situations
Can be helpful in some situations
Fight (stay) or flight (run) response even freeze
Can alert us if danger is coming (a bear)
Body’s built in alarm system
Our body starts to respond

Tools for coping

Learn to breathe more slowly and take deep breaths
Focus on deep breathing
Focus on now , here moments
Recognize your symptoms and learn how to manage them
Develop a plan on managing your symp- toms and triggers
Learn about self-help strategies
Learn about stress management
Get/download some apps on relaxation techniques
Connect with people you trust, family or friends
Use positive self-talk
Find a calm hobby, sew, bead, draw, dance, walk
Eat healthy

If you feel that your symptoms are too overwhelming, contact your local clinic and seek help. Its not a sign of weakness but strength that you want to help yourself.