Anxiety-Prevention You can help prevent anxiety attacks:

• Avoid caffeine, such as coffee, tea, colas, energy drinks, and chocolate. Caffeine can keep you in a tense, aroused condition. For more information, see the topic Healthy Eating.
• Do not smoke or use smokeless (spit) tobacco products. Nicotine stimulates many physical and psychological processes, causes your blood vessels to constrict, and makes your heart work harder. For more information, see the topic Quitting Smoking.
• Exercise during the day. Even a brisk walk around the block may help you stay calm. For more information, see the topic Fitness.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help control symptoms of anxiety or panic.

Did You Know?

Under the Affordable Care Act, many health insurance plans will cover preventive mental health services, including screening tests for depression and alcohol misuse, at no cost to you. Learn more.

Health Insurance Center

In this article