Overcoming Rejection and Beat Anxiety

Nobody likes getting rejected. I actually hate it! We all have the need to feel accepted by others, and that sense of connection we get from positive relationships is important for our mental health and wellness. Studies have shown that the need to be accepted is a survival tactic our minds are conditioned to do. Anxiety sufferers can often experience extreme rejection sensitivity. They sometimes perceive being rejected in social situations, even when this is not the case. It's me I'm the anxiety suffer who feels that way. I think everyone is rejecting me at least a couple times a day. I really am sick of it! LOL. I have really taken a deep dive into why I feel this way and what I can do minimize these feelings and also handle a situation that is not working out in my favor. Overcoming Rejection When You Have Anxiety Our brains are wired in such a way that the pain from rejection can almost be compared to experiencing physical pain. The rejection we feel when relationships or friendships end can also contribute to depression, particularly for women. Strategies for Anxiety Relief After Rejection It is important not to let rejection get the better of you, as dwelling too long on it can contribute to other mental health issues, such as anxiety, social anxiety disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, and depersonalization. One of the best strategies I have found for coping with rejection is changing my mindset around it. Instead of viewing it as a “rejection,” I now try to see it as a learning opportunity. I also change how I perceive the incident. No one can reject me unless I let them reject me. Sometimes, your needs and the needs of the other party don’t “match up.” This is not a negative reflection of you! Being respectful and accepting the choices of the other person is important. I am not being rejected, but being “redirected” on the path leading to what God has planned for me. Another helpful strategy is figuring out what is behind your feelings. For example, if you are afraid of feeling lonely after a break-up and it is causing anxiety, work on building positive friendships to combat this. In other words one monkey don't stop no show! Also, lean on the support network of family and friends that you have around you and who appreciate your presence. Talking through your feelings and fears can offer a lot of anxiety relief in situations where rejection in a relationship, friendship, or at work are damaging your mental health.

Final Thoughts If you have already tried some strategies and you are not experiencing anxiety relief, talking to a professional might be the best next course of action. Don't be afraid to sit that ass on someones couch and process all the thoughts and feelings you are having. True strength is being courageous enough to ask for help when you need it. A problem can seem much heavier when the only person carrying it is you!