I think it takes a lot of trial and error. If you’ve ever learned about DBT skills for Distress Tolerance, it can seem like there’s so much and it’s because everyone benefits from different things. I definitely understand this though. When I first developed anxiety and panic attacks, it was like there was this thing taking over my body and I didn’t know what to do with it. I feel like just trying new skills and strategies and seeing what works through trial and error is unfortunately the best way to do it. There’s no real quick fix of knowing what’s going to work. A very important part of this though is making sure you practice the skills you want to try BEFORE the anxiety. When I get anxiety, I can have good intentions but in the moment I seem to forget any kind of coping skill I’ve ever learned. I’ve realized over time that practicing them and rehearsing them ahead of time helps when you’re thrown into it later.
