Anxiety is a feeling that many of us know all too well—an unsettling sensation that seems to creep up, tightening our chest, quickening our breath, and filling our minds with worry. It can feel like a constant companion, always reminding us of uncertainties and the potential for things to go wrong. But what if we could understand anxiety not as an enemy, but as a part of ourselves seeking to be heard?
At its essence, anxiety is a response to perceived threats or challenges, a natural reaction that prepares our bodies to handle stress. It’s the voice that urges us to be careful, to pay attention, to prepare. But when this voice becomes too loud, it can make even simple decisions or everyday situations feel overwhelming, holding us back from enjoying the present.
In therapy, we explore anxiety with curiosity. We ask, What is this feeling trying to protect me from? Sometimes, anxiety speaks of past experiences that have shaped our sense of safety. Other times, it reflects fears about the future—what we cannot control or predict. By listening to anxiety with compassion, we can start to untangle the stories it tells, learning how to respond with a sense of calm rather than panic.
It’s important to remember that anxiety does not define you—it’s a part of your experience, not the whole picture. With the right support, understanding, and tools, it’s possible to shift from feeling overwhelmed to feeling empowered. You can learn to ride the waves of anxiety, rather than be swept away by them.