Taming the "What Ifs": Coping with Anxiety in Your Personal and Professional Life
“Anxiety is a fickle b*tch that sneaks up when you least expect it…it feels like a bad case of the “what if’s” that you can’t escape!” - Alexis Sturnick, LCSW - Founder and Lead Psychotherapist of Resilience Therapy
Anxiety can be a sneaky and persistent companion that affects people from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, or background. However, it seems that Gen Zs and Millennials are experiencing a specific and significant increase in the prevalence of stress and anxiety. Due to the unique challenges and expectations often faced in today's fast-paced and highly connected world, it's not surprising that “hustle-culture” makes it difficult to succeed without experiencing some level or form of anxiety.
As a psychotherapist and new mom, I've both witnessed and experienced firsthand how anxiety can manifest in the lives of working adults who are juggling a multitude of responsibilities. From navigating career aspirations to maintaining relationships and caring for family members, the demands of modern life can be overwhelming.
While depression often involves ruminating on the past, anxiety is all about fearing the future. It's that nagging voice that whispers, "What if I'm not good enough?" or "What if I can't handle the pressure?" These thoughts can be particularly intense for young professionals who are often navigating the challenges of establishing a career while maintaining personal relationships and responsibilities. On the one hand you know it is important to “hustle” and produce quality work. But on the other hand you are also being told to eat well, get enough sleep, maintain your friendships, spend quality time with your family, have a clean house, and so on. Add in the comparison to peers or even strangers across social media, and it’s no wonder that our culture is brewing anxiety.
Common symptoms of anxiety include restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms like muscle tension and headaches. Anxiety can manifest as constant worries about job performance, financial stability, or personal relationships.
So, how can we tame these “what ifs” and find a sense of calm amongst the chaos? Here are a few coping strategies that can help:
Practice mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day to focus on the present moment. This can be as simple as taking a walk and noticing how many different sounds you hear. Redirecting your senses can help you break free from the cycle of anxious thoughts.
Challenge your thoughts: When you catch yourself spiraling into those tricky "what if" scenarios, ask yourself: "Is this thought based on facts or feelings?" Often, anxiety is fueled by emotions rather than reality.
Prioritize self-care: It's easy to put our own needs last. But taking care of yourself - whether it's through exercise, hobbies, or time with friends - is crucial for managing anxiety.
Seek support: Don't be afraid to reach out to trusted loved ones, safe colleagues, or a mental health professional for help. Talking about your anxieties with dependable and trusted people can make them feel less overwhelming.
Remember, experiencing anxiety doesn't make you weak or incapable. It's a common challenge that many of us face, and there are strategies and resources available to help you cope.
If you're struggling with anxiety, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for additional support. With the right tools and mindset, it is possible to tame those "what ifs" and find a sense of peace, confidence, and resilience in both your personal and professional life.
