I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. Taking this step is a powerful act of self-care. Anxiety isn’t just about feeling stressed or worried occasionally; it can deeply affect your daily life, your relationships, and your sense of well-being. Let’s explore it together.
What is Anxiety?
At its core, anxiety is your body’s way of trying to keep you safe. It’s your nervous system sensing danger, even when there’s no immediate threat. But when anxiety becomes persistent, intense, and overwhelming, it can signal an anxiety disorder. If you’re feeling stuck in worry or fear that interferes with your daily life, knowing you’re not alone and support is available is essential.
Common Anxiety Symptoms:
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, know that it makes sense—your body and mind are doing their best to protect you:
- Constant worry or feeling unsettled
- Restlessness or feeling like you’re “on edge.”
- Trouble concentrating or a mind that won’t slow down
- Feeling drained
- Muscle tension or physical discomfort
- Feeling irritable or easily frustrated
- Trouble sleeping (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or restless nights)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder can feel like your mind is stuck in “what if” mode—constantly worried, tense, or expecting the worst, even when logically you know things are okay. You might find yourself frequently overwhelmed about health, finances, family, or work, even without a clear reason.
Anxiety Attacks vs. Panic Attacks
It’s helpful to understand that anxiety and panic attacks, while similar, are actually distinct:
- Anxiety Attacks: These build gradually and are often triggered by specific stressors or fears. You might feel your heart racing, tightness in your chest, dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- Panic Attacks: These strike suddenly and intensely, often without any clear trigger, leaving you feeling terrified, with symptoms like rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and fears of losing control or even dying. Usually, these peak within minutes.
Health Anxiety
Health anxiety shows up as intense worry about having a serious illness, even when medical tests say you’re okay. You might frequently check your body for signs of illness, worry about normal sensations, and feel distressed to the point that it disrupts your daily life.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD involves unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at relieving anxiety. While these behaviors offer temporary relief, they often reinforce the anxiety. Common obsessions include fears of contamination or harm, and compulsions often include excessive checking or cleaning.
Perfectionism
Perfectionism can be closely linked with anxiety, making it hard to accept mistakes or imperfections. You may feel intense pressure to meet extremely high standards, leading to procrastination, indecision, and self-critical thoughts that can hinder your happiness and productivity.
How I Work With Anxiety
My approach blends compassionate understanding with neuroscience-backed strategies and practical tools. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), somatic therapy, attachment therapy, and mindfulness techniques to address anxiety at its roots. Together, we’ll explore your unique patterns, identify triggers, and gently challenge old narratives to create personalized strategies that empower you with emotional resilience and clarity.
Remember, anxiety is something you can heal and grow beyond—and you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here, ready to support you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to feel calmer and more in control, schedule your free consultation today.
The Perfectionism Trap: How the Pressure to Be Perfect Fuels Anxiety and Depression