Why Figuring Out Anxiety Doesn’t Work & What to Do Instead

Understanding and Overcoming the Stress and Anxiety Loop

In today's bustling world, anxiety can often feel like an unwelcome, overpowering companion. However, the key to overcoming anxiety begins with understanding it. This episode from Restored Minds led by Matt Codde, a licensed clinical social worker, delves deep into the anxiety loop and the counterproductive nature of trying to "figure out" anxiety.

The Anxiety Loop Explained

The anxiety loop is a self-perpetuating cycle consisting of four components: fearful thoughts, emotional energy or sensations (commonly termed as anxiety or stress), behaviors (mental or physical) that counteract these feelings, and the resultant relief, which continues the cycle. This loop is not merely unpleasant, but as it grows, it can disrupt one's life, evolving into disorder. Matt emphasizes that it's not the presence of anxious thoughts or feelings that create disorder but the repetition of this loop.

The Problem with Trying to "Figure It Out"

One of the most deceptive forms of mental compulsion is the attempt to "figure out" one's anxiety. Many of us believe that logic and reasoning can combat fear. However, Matt points out that fear often bypasses our logical brain, leading us to engage in irrational behaviors without even realizing it. A pertinent example is the irrational hoarding behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic, where logic was overshadowed by fear.

Trying to rationalize or figure out why we feel a certain way is often an escape from the feeling itself. Instead of confronting this feeling, we hide in the realms of our minds, making ourselves believe that we're being rational. This avoidance does not resolve the feeling but rather perpetuates the anxiety loop, validating the fear and inadvertently making the problem worse.

Breaking Free from the Loop

Acknowledging that the act of "figuring it out" is a mental safety behavior is crucial. This behavior declares the feeling dangerous and fuels the anxiety loop. To truly break free, one must focus on confronting and experiencing the feelings rather than avoiding them through mind games.

Matt offers resources like a guide, a newsletter, and live events to further aid on this journey. These tools aim to empower individuals to break their anxiety loops and step into a life of awareness and control.

To conquer anxiety, it's essential to stop escaping feelings and instead confront them head-on. Recognizing that solace doesn't lie in mental escapism but in embracing and understanding one's feelings is a step toward lasting peace. For further guidance on this journey, explore resources available from Restored Minds, and consider joining their live events for consistent support and community.