Anxiety and panic can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Some anxiety is driven by rational situations and the realities of day-to-day living. For example, taking a major test or applying for a job. However, in some cases, anxiety presents without a rational basis, and it can be overwhelming. Panic attacks are one of the most intense and disrupting sensations that we can experience. From a racing heartbeat, excessive sweeting, and difficulty breathing, a panic attack can result in a serious loss of function. The following guide to self-soothing and affect (emotional) regulation can help us deal with anxiety in healthy and productive ways without turning to medications that may be unnecessary.