Ever wake up and already feel like your mind is running a mile a minute? One moment you’re waking up to your alarm, and the next you’re already worrying about work or the mountain of dishes from last night’s dinner. If this sounds familiar, this could be morning anxiety.

Either situational stress or an underlying anxiety disorder can cause morning anxiety. It’s persistent worrying about the day ahead and creates a feeling of dread within your body. Sometimes, you might also experience symptoms such as stomach pain, tightness in your chest, headaches, and heart palpitations.

One of the most effective strategies for dealing with morning anxiety is by having a consistent sleep schedule. Try to aim for eight hours of sleep each night. Additionally, getting rid of screens before bed or cutting back on caffeine can help you get better sleep at night.

If your morning anxiety is getting the best of you, try breathing exercises. Not only are they good for regulating your breath and heart rate, but they also help ground you in the present.

Morning anxiety can feel overwhelming. However, implementing practical strategies to help cope can lead to a better start to the day. So next time you wake up and your mind starts racing ahead? Breathe in and out.

By Daria Horbal, BSc. Phm.