Overworked? Underpaid? Are you so stressed out that your cat moved in with a neighbor? International Panic Day can be used to help you return to some sense of normalcy.

This day is not to be confused with International Picnic Day, which is confusingly celebrated on the same date. It is the only day in the year when it’s almost okay to send a letter on anything that causes stress in your life.

This idea started as a mock holiday and was intended to offer a day of relaxation from the normal panic that many people experience. This is a day for relaxation and letting go of panic and stress.

It may seem like a fun way to deal with it, but panic disorder is serious. Panic disorder, a mental illness that can affect as much as 2% of the world’s population in some countries, is actually a serious problem. Panic disorder is more common in women than in men. The condition can be treated if the affected person is equipped with self-care techniques and a healthy diet.

Many countries around the globe have adopted International Panic Day to raise awareness about mental illness. This day is intended to encourage people to relax, slow down and seek the help they need if they are indeed experiencing panic attacks. Preventive measures are the best.

Take time to celebrate International Panic Day and focus on stress reduction and taking time off.

You can celebrate International Panic Day by spending some alone time (if it’s important), calling a friend, and engaging in any of these activities that can help reduce stress and panic in your life.

These types of activities can make a big difference in your mental and physical health, whether you are doing a few slow breathing exercises or meditating for an hour.

It can slow down panicky thoughts by allowing yourself to be present in the moment. Deep breathing can increase heart rate and reduce stress response. It may be beneficial to take a class at a yoga studio or community center that offers relaxation techniques and tools for stress reduction.

It might be a good idea to take a break from the daily hustle and bustle and celebrate the day. Take a deep, slow breath and try to relax your mind and body.

It’s a great idea to take the day off from work! You can make waffles and not share them, go to your favorite coffee shop, and read a book from the library, take a relaxing bath, or spend time with a friend.

What about going to a local park and having a picnic? Although it’s confusing, this allows for both Panic Day and picnics to be celebrated simultaneously.

People who truly are experiencing panic attacks as a stress response should seek professional help immediately. Calling a counselor may seem like a daunting first step. Instead, talk to a trusted friend or family member to find out if they are willing or able to help you call a counselor.

Remember that mental health issues are not shameful. Seeking professional help is the best thing you can do to get on the path to recovery.