Most of us worry from time to time!  That can be a normal part of living.  However, many struggle with chronic or severe worry and anxiety.

Anxiety effects the brain.  As the anxiety increases, it’s like a light is flashing in the brain with the words “THREAT, THREAT, THREAT!  The brain responds as it would in “real” danger (such as it would if suddenly a car hurtled towards you).  The car is an identifiable fear and threat.  Anxiety is a perceived, unclear threat, but to the brain, a threat nonetheless.  Our physiology changes as adrenaline is released, heart rate increases, blood pressure goes up, respiration increases, and muscles tighten.  The body goes into “fight or flight” mode.

Our first line of anxiety treatment involves calming down this physiology (and if one has ever tried to think rationally, solve an argument, etc while in fight or flight mode – we all know it doesn’t go well!!!!!) So the calming is MOST important!

Comprehensive anxiety treatment involves seven areas.  The anxiety group class deals with all seven.  They are:

Physical:  Involving the brain, diet, exercise.

Emotional: Awareness and expression of feelings.

Behavioral:  Self-soothing, managing phobias and panic attacks.

Mental: Negative thoughts and self talk, mistaken beliefs, mindfullness.

Interpersonal:  Boundaries, self-assertiveness, inner child work.

Join us on Monday nights beginning October 1 if you are struggling with anxiety!  Practical, empowering tools are taught. You will learn you are not alone!  And, if you are over 50, and struggling with anxiety – this is a prime time to work on it!  Often at this age we are empty nesters with time to work on some of these life patterns.  Plus we see that they don’t just go away . . . . .

Look forward to meeting you!

Jeannie Mall, LMFT