Managing Anxiety: How Counseling Can Make a Difference
Does Anxiety Feel Like It’s Running Your Life?
We’ve all been there—your heart’s racing, your mind’s going a mile a minute, and no matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to stop the flood of anxious thoughts. Anxiety is tough, but it doesn’t have to be something you handle on your own. Counseling for anxiety offers a way to manage those overwhelming feelings and take back control. In this blog, we'll cover how anxiety counseling works, the types of therapy available, and what you can do to manage anxiety between sessions.
What Happens in Anxiety Counseling?
Anxiety counseling is more than just talking about your worries—it's about finding the right tools to manage them. Your therapist will work with you to understand where your anxiety is coming from and teach you techniques to keep it in check. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone’s anxiety is different, which is why your therapist will tailor the approach specifically to your needs.
Types of Therapy for Anxiety
There are several therapeutic approaches used to treat anxiety. Here are some of the most effective:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is the gold standard for anxiety treatment. CBT helps you identify and challenge negative thought patterns that fuel your anxiety. Once you can recognize these patterns, you can start changing them.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Mindfulness teaches you how to focus on the present moment, which can be a huge relief when your mind is racing. Mindfulness-based therapy incorporates relaxation and meditation techniques to help you stay grounded.
Exposure Therapy: If you have specific phobias or social anxiety, exposure therapy helps you confront those fears in a controlled environment. Over time, this reduces your overall anxiety.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT focuses on helping you manage intense emotions and develop strategies to cope when things get overwhelming.
Tips for Managing Anxiety Between Therapy Sessions
Therapy is a great resource, but what can you do to manage anxiety in the moments between your sessions? Here are some practical strategies:
Practice Deep Breathing
When anxiety hits, your body tends to go into overdrive. Deep breathing can help calm your nervous system and bring your anxiety down. Try inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 7, and exhaling for 8.Challenge Your Thoughts
When anxious thoughts arise, ask yourself, “Is this really true?” Often, anxiety stems from irrational fears. Challenging those thoughts can help you put them into perspective.Ground Yourself in the Present
When anxiety makes you feel disconnected, grounding exercises can help. Focus on what’s around you—name five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, and so on.Take Breaks When Needed
Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed to take a break. Build small breaks into your routine to help prevent anxiety from escalating.Move Your Body
Physical activity is one of the best ways to combat anxiety. It doesn’t have to be intense—even a short walk can help clear your mind.
Summary: Counseling Can Help You Take Back Control
Anxiety doesn’t have to run your life. With the right counseling and coping techniques, you can learn to manage those feelings and regain control. Therapy offers a personalized approach to understanding and reducing anxiety, while practical tips like deep breathing and grounding exercises can make a big difference between sessions.
Are you ready to take the first step toward managing your anxiety and feeling more in control?