Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural part of being human. It’s our body’s way of reacting to perceived threats or dangers—even if those threats aren't real. Here's how anxiety might show up in your life:
Thoughts: Worries like, “What if something goes wrong?” or “I can’t handle this.”
Emotions: Feelings of fear, nervousness, or dread.
Physical Sensations: Symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, tense muscles, stomachaches, or shortness of breath.
In small doses, anxiety can be helpful. It might push us to prepare for an exam or stay alert in risky situations. But when anxiety starts interfering with your daily life, it’s time to consider new strategies.
How We Respond to Anxiety
When anxiety hits, our instinct is often to avoid or control it. Here’s what that might look like:
Avoiding Situations: Skipping social events, avoiding public speaking, or steering clear of crowded places.
Controlling Thoughts: Telling yourself to “just stop worrying” or trying to push anxious thoughts away.
Engaging in Safety Behaviors: Repeatedly checking things, seeking constant reassurance, or over-preparing for every possible outcome.
Why Avoidance and Control Don't Work Long-Term
While avoidance and control might offer temporary relief, they often make anxiety worse in the long run. Here’s why:
Short-Term Relief: Avoiding something that triggers anxiety might make you feel better now, but it can teach your brain that the situation is dangerous, making anxiety stronger the next time.
Narrowing Your Life: Avoidance can lead to missing out on important or enjoyable activities, which narrows your life and reinforces the anxiety.
Increasing Anxiety: Trying to control anxiety can lead to increased focus on anxious thoughts and sensations, making them more powerful.
A Balanced Approach: Acceptance and Action
Instead of avoiding or trying to control your anxiety, consider these approaches:
Accept the Anxiety: Notice and allow your anxious thoughts, feelings, and sensations without trying to change or get rid of them. It’s okay to feel anxious; accepting it can help reduce its power over you.
Commit to Realistic Actions: Identify your values, such as being a supportive friend or pursuing a meaningful career, and take realistic steps toward them, even if it feels uncomfortable. Aligning your actions with your values helps you move forward despite anxiety.
By embracing both acceptance and action, you can manage anxiety in a way that supports your overall well-being and keeps you engaged in the life you want to live.
All the best,
Jayne
**Feel like your anxiety is getting the best of you? Explore more tips and resources on my website or get in touch for a free 15-minute consultation.