So What Exactly Is Anxiety?

Understanding Anxiety: Uncovering the Root of Your Fears 

Many women have experienced anxiety at some time in life, myself included. Anxiety is a physiological and psychological response to a stressor that can manifest in various forms – from a general unease and for some women, a full-blown panic attack, leading to multiple emergency room visits to understand what’s happening in their bodies. Whether it’s a fleeting moment of worry or a chronic condition, anxiety often signals that something deeper is occurring. 

When you examine the anatomy of your anxiety, you may find that fear is at its core. This fear might stem from numerous sources: the fear of losing your home, an embarrassment in a professional setting, loss of control, or a perceived physical threat. When these fears go unaddressed, they can leave us feeling vulnerable and unsafe, which in turn triggers anxiety. In my experience, understanding the root cause is the first step toward creating relief. 

Start with deconstructing the anxiety by first asking yourself: What am I afraid of? Over time, you may notice patterns or recurring themes that reveal the source of underlying fears. You may be unknowingly holding onto old fears from past experiences or outdated beliefs that should have been put to rest years ago. Once you’ve identified your fears, the next step is to challenge and reframe them. 

Working with a mental health professional to receive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in this regard. CBT techniques encourage you to question the validity of your fears and consider more rational perspectives. For example, if you fear failure at work, ask yourself: What’s the worst that could happen? Often, the reality is far less catastrophic than our minds make it out to be. Working with a professional can also support you in developing essential coping strategies that can help you stay calm during anxious moments. Lastly, surround yourself with a support system of friends and family who can support your efforts in managing your anxiety and improving your mental well-being. 

It’s difficult to change what you can’t see, so take some time to uncover the root of your fears. You may find that at this point in your life, there’s actually nothing to be afraid of. By identifying and addressing these fears, you can begin to reduce your anxiety and live better for a lifetime!

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute professional mental health services rendered by a licensed mental health provider.