Try our free, self-paced course to get tools to support your mental wellbeing. Tap here to sign up.

Box Breathing to Reduce Anxiety
Resources: Mental Health, Self-care, Wellbeing, Support, Crisis, For Myself, For Family / Whānau, Youth Talk, Parents and Caregivers, Kids, Video
Learn the Box Breathing Technique for Anxiety

Box Breathing is a popular and powerful strategy to reduce stress and anxiety. This tutorial provides a helpful guide to WHY and HOW to use Box Breathing to relax. This strategy is broadly effective, from mild stress to severe anxiety, from intense moments to maintaining a calm state throughout the day. For more support and information please call our free 24/7 national Anxiety Helpline - 0800 ANXIETY (0800 269 4389)

Need Immediate Help?

If you are worried about the safety of a loved one, or someone else, you can call the Crisis Team on 0800 800 717 or dial 111 in an emergency. 

Important numbers and resources to find advice and support at a time of crisis or distress:
  • Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.

  • Lifeline 0800 543 354 or (09) 522 2999 | Free text 4357 (HELP)

  • Youthline 0800 376 633

  • Samaritans 0800 726 666

  • If you or someone you know is at risk of harm: dial 111 or visit your nearest hospital emergency department. 

  • Call 0800 611 116 for your nearest DHB Mental Health Crisis Team (CATT Team).

Do you need support? Yellow Brick Road is a national organisation that provides support for whānau who have a loved one experiencing mental health challenges. 

For more information about helping family / whānau visit mentalhealth.org.nz

Ready to learn more about supporting your mental wellbeing?
The Empowered course is a free, self-paced course from Anxiety NZ to help you and your whānau navigate anxiety with proven strategies and support.