Beyond the Spiral: Why You Shouldn’t Believe Everything Anxiety Tells Youनमुना

Anxiety’s Lie: I Can Do This Alone.

We were designed to do life with others. None of us can manage anxiety on our own. But sadly, guilt and shame often stop us from reaching out to others for the help we need. You may believe you don’t deserve help or blame yourself for what you’re going through. However, it’s important to recognize shame for what it is and for how it affects your thought life. Practice self-compassion and reach out to someone. Simply talking to someone about how you’re feeling can decrease anxious feelings by 50%.

So, start by considering who you could talk to. Write down what you want to say to keep your thoughts clear at the moment. (Sharing specific examples of how your anxiety plays out may be helpful.) Ask the person if you can set a time to talk so they know you’re keen to have an intentional conversation and so they can give you their undivided attention. Lastly, just do it.

Your conversation doesn’t need to be perfect or polished—just real. Share your heart and ask them if they can help you. Depending on your symptoms of anxiety, you may want to find a therapist or a doctor who can prescribe helpful medication or coping strategies.

A simple way to invite God into your struggle is by going to church. We’re created to need community, and it’s there you’ll find the strength to break the anxiety loop. Meet with God’s people. Eat with them. Laugh with them. Share your life with them. It will put faith in your heart, and you’ll develop deeper connections with people who can love and support you in your struggles.

The lie that we should be able to get through our anxiety alone stems from the belief that we don’t need to be a burden on anyone else or that maybe there’s something wrong with us. But the truth is it’s okay to ask for help. People want to help. We just need to take the next courageous step and talk to someone we trust. One of the best ways to get help is by connecting with God’s family, the Church, where you’ll find community and encouragement.