The Constant Chatter in my Head!

Anxiety is one of the commonest mental health conditions which presents to therapists. It seems that it is on the rise too. Maybe it was COVID, or the economy or general unrest in the world; it just seems to be increasing. The good thing is that it is recognized as a debilitating condition now, hence more people are willing to seek help. 

If I were to state some of the ways I have heard anxiety being described, it would be “a constant chatter in my head,” “I can’t stop the thoughts,” or “I worry about worrying…” 
Simply, it is excessive, exaggerated and uncontrolled worry about everything (generalized anxiety) or one thing, but to the extent of it becoming a fear (phobia). It can be mild to severe, sometimes presenting with limiting thoughts/ behaviours like in Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCDs).

Anxiety can present with a variety of symptoms, some of which are hyperawareness, insomnia, lack of joy, palpitations, trembling and sweating, panic attacks or stomach upset. Many clients have secondary issues like drug abuse or avoidance/ isolation.

Psychotherapy helps with anxiety, using strategies like journaling, thought reframing, thought replacement, emotional and symptom regulation through grounding, mindfulness, acceptance, internal parts’ description, early childhood exploration, meditation and behavioral experiments or graded exposure. The best results are in clients who do regular therapy for an extended time. It is important to recognize that anxiety does not need to be ‘cured,’ one can learn to manage and understand it. Some clients also opt for medication and therapy together.

The journey to a calmer, more grounded self starts with recognition of a need for help. Therapeutic relationship plays a central role in therapy. The rest of it is tailored to individuals’ needs. If you feel that you have been struggling with constant worry or debilitating fears, maybe talking about them and exploring possible solutions would help.