subject spotlight
Therapy for Anxiety: When Worry Takes the Wheel
Ever feel like your mind’s racing, your heart’s pounding, and no matter what you do, you just can’t shake that persistent, nagging sense of worry? You’re not alone—far from it. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), about 40 million people in the U.S. are grappling with some form of anxiety disorder. That’s almost 20% of the population! The kicker? Less than 40% actually seek treatment. So, if you’ve been trying to tough it out, pretending everything's fine while your anxiety is driving you up the wall, you’re definitely not the only one. But here’s the deal—anxiety is incredibly treatable with the right help, whether that’s individual therapy or couples therapy in Hermosa Beach.
Anxiety—What’s Normal, What’s Not?
So, how do you know if what you’re feeling is normal, everyday anxiety or something more serious that requires some extra attention? Good question. It’s totally normal to feel anxious before a big event, like a job interview or a first date. That nervous buzz in your stomach? Yep, we’ve all been there. But when anxiety becomes a constant companion, tagging along with you everywhere and making even the smallest tasks feel like climbing Everest, that’s when it crosses over into something more.
The American Psychological Association defines anxiety as “an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure.” It's your brain’s natural response to perceived threats or stress, activating what’s called the "fight-or-flight" response. The trouble is, when anxiety shows up without an invitation (and refuses to leave), it can interfere with your ability to live life fully—whether that’s keeping you from getting a good night’s sleep, avoiding social situations, or constantly second-guessing every decision.
Anxiety isn’t one-size-fits-all, and there are various types that affect people in different ways. Understanding which type you might be experiencing is the first step in tackling it.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): This is when worry becomes your default setting. It’s not about one specific thing but everything. You’re constantly anticipating worst-case scenarios, feeling like something bad is always around the corner.
Panic Disorder: Do you experience sudden, intense panic attacks out of nowhere? Your heart races, you can’t breathe, and for a few minutes, it feels like the world is ending. That’s panic disorder.
Social Anxiety Disorder: This is the fear of being judged or humiliated in social situations, even if you know your fears are irrational. Whether it’s speaking in front of a crowd or just making small talk, social anxiety can keep you feeling trapped.
Phobias: Some anxieties have a very specific target, like fear of heights, spiders, or flying. Phobias make facing these triggers feel impossible.
Agoraphobia: Contrary to popular belief, agoraphobia isn’t just a fear of open spaces—it’s a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or help isn’t readily available. It can make things like using elevators, public transportation, or even just leaving home feel overwhelming.
Understanding the type of anxiety you’re dealing with can help us develop a personalized plan to address it through therapy in Hermosa Beach.
Common types of anxiety disorders
Here are some common causes of anxiety:
Stressful life events: Whether it’s financial issues, job stress, or relationship problems, anxiety can build up when you feel like life’s demands are outweighing your ability to cope.
Past trauma: If you’ve experienced trauma—whether in childhood or adulthood—it can leave lasting effects that make you more vulnerable to anxiety.
Genetics: Yup, anxiety can run in families. If your parents struggled with it, there’s a chance you might too.
Brain chemistry: Some people are just wired to respond more intensely to stress. The brain’s threat-detection system, the amygdala, can be a little too trigger-happy in some cases.
If any of this sounds familiar, know that it’s not all in your head (well, technically it is, but you know what I mean). Anxiety is a real, physical experience—and you don’t have to battle it alone.
What causes anxiety?
Through our sessions, you’ll learn practical tools to help manage anxiety in real-time. We’ll work on grounding techniques, mindfulness exercises, and cognitive strategies that can stop anxiety in its tracks. These tools can help you face the things that scare you most, without letting anxiety take the reins. It’s not about making anxiety disappear completely—it’s about learning how to coexist with it in a way that doesn’t disrupt your life.
How can individual therapy help you find relief
Couples therapy is a fantastic way to address how anxiety shows up in your relationship. We’ll work on building better communication, so both partners feel heard and understood. We’ll also develop strategies to manage anxiety together, ensuring it doesn’t drive a wedge between you. Sometimes, just having a neutral third party to help you navigate tough conversations can make all the difference.
How can couples therapy help ease anxiety in relationships
In individual therapy or couples therapy right here in Hermosa Beach, you’ll find a peaceful, supportive environment to work through these challenges. Therapy is a judgment-free zone where you can explore what’s going on beneath the surface, learn how to manage anxiety, and ultimately live a fuller, more relaxed life.
Why choose therapy in
Hermosa Beach?
At the end of the day, therapy is about giving you the tools and confidence to manage your anxiety and reclaim your peace. With strategies like mindfulness, cognitive behavioral techniques, and relaxation exercises, we’ll work together to create a roadmap to a life where anxiety doesn’t get to call the shots. Ready to start feeling more like yourself again? Let’s work together in Hermosa Beach to find that balance.
