A Novel Take on Anxiety: Give Yourself More Control
Rethinking the Word “Anxiety”
As a psychologist specializing in anxiety therapy for more than 30 years, I often remind patients that the words we use to talk to ourselves matter. Take the word “anxiety.”
Clinically, anxiety refers to a group of psychological and physical symptoms tied to the body’s fear response. But in everyday conversation, “anxiety” gets used as a catch-all word for many different emotional states.
The issue? Overusing or misusing the word “anxiety” can actually increase anxious feelings. When you tell yourself “I’m anxious” over and over, your brain starts to treat that identity as fact.
The Problem with “I’m an Anxious Person”
I’ve seen countless patients in telehealth therapy sessions across Missouri, New Jersey, and nationwide describe themselves as “an anxious person.” While it may feel true in the moment, this phrase can actually create unnecessary anxiety and hold back recovery.
Why? Because when we identify with anxiety as part of our personality, we reinforce it as permanent. A more helpful approach is to view anxiety as something separate—like a symptom that doesn’t belong, rather than a defining trait of who you are.
Expanding Your Emotional Vocabulary
One effective anxiety treatment strategy is learning to describe your emotions more precisely. Many feelings that get labeled as “anxiety” are actually something else.
Here’s a sample of emotions people often confuse with anxiety:
Afraid
Concerned
Doubtful
Frantic
Insecure
Nervous
Overwhelmed
Panicky
Reluctant
Shaken
Suspicious
Tense
Uneasy
Vulnerable
Take the word overwhelmed. In therapy, we can explore the specific causes of feeling overwhelmed, break them down, and create solutions. That’s much more productive than simply labeling everything as “anxiety.”
A Small Shift That Makes a Big Difference
When you begin to label emotions with greater accuracy, you reduce unnecessary anxiety and open the door to more effective coping strategies. This simple shift is one of many tools I use in anxiety counseling and therapy sessions.
Considering Anxiety Therapy?
If you’ve been struggling with anxiety or related concerns, telehealth may be a convenient and effective option. I offer therapy for anxiety, stress, and related conditions in:
Missouri (St. Louis and statewide)
New Jersey (Westfield and statewide)
Across the U.S. through PsyPact
I provide a free 15-minute consultation to help you decide whether therapy is the right next step.
📧 Email: lshapiro@quantumbehavioral.com
📞 Phone: 314-809-3964
🌐 Visit: www.quantumbehavioral.com
👉 If you’ve been searching for “anxiety therapy near me” or “telehealth for anxiety,” know that support is available. With the right strategies, anxiety doesn’t have to define you