11/02/2026
Anxiety is an unpleasant feeling of unease which, when intense and recurring, can consume positive emotions and distort productive thoughts. Where the feeling stems from may not always be consciously known, but what we do know is that anxiety is designed to keep us safe. Thatโs right, anxiety can be a really positive thing. In fact, itโs just one way that the brain helps to keep us alive. So why then is anxiety so emotionally painful? Why would the brain want to do that to us? It doesnโt. Itโs not trying to hurt us, but sometimes the brain misfires and triggers the emotional response too readily. Itโs like a faulty switch that keeps coming on and needs fixing. It will need a bit of rewiring, so that it only comes on when we really need it to.
It seems some people may, through no fault of their own, be more inclined towards anxiety, and this means their brains may be even more keen to keep them in a safe state of being. This could be because of genetics, hormonal imbalances, family history, past experiences, etc. How and why anxiety manifests is complex and no two cases will be the same.
Those who suffer from regular flares of anxiety may wake up feeling positive, ready to tackle the world with pizazz and gusto, but then suddenly, out of nowhere, an attack can strike, leaving them feeling incapacitated and, sometimes, alone. Stress can increase the likelihood of anxiety making an appearance, and it can also exacerbate the strength and duration of a flare-up, but anxiety can creep into your day-to-day life for many reasons.
If any of this resonates with you, it doesnโt mean you have to succumb to anxiety. It can be quietened. You do not have to let anxiety control your life any longer, so please do reach out if youโd like to chat about how I may be able to help.