Understanding Anxiety: Why It Feels So Overwhelming – and What Actually Helps

Anxiety can feel confusing, overwhelming and exhausting – especially when it shows up without an obvious reason. Many people worry that anxiety means something is “wrong” with them, or that they should be able to control it better.

In reality, anxiety is a natural response. And understanding how it works is often the first step towards feeling calmer and more in control.

All the mind racing and thinking the worst can feel overwhelming and confusing when you aren’t sure why it is happening. And all those unpleasant physical sensations of anxiety can cause worry and fear that there is something serious medically wrong with you. It becomes and ongoing cycle of dread, worry, fear and anxiety.

This article is based on Episode 1 of the Dan Regan Hypnotherapy Podcast, where I explain what anxiety really is, why it can feel so intense, and what genuinely helps when it shows up. Through upcoming episodes we are going to explain and normalise anxiety, alongside helping you learn how to feel better in yourself.

This episode is part of the Dan Regan Hypnotherapy Podcast, where I share calm, practical support around anxiety.

 

What Anxiety Really Is

Anxiety is your mind and body preparing you to respond to some perceived threat. Most commonly, there is no actual threat or danger present. You know this logically but the emotions take over.

It’s designed to protect you – but when it becomes persistent, it can feel frightening and hard to manage.

Anxiety often shows up as:

• Catastrophising, racing or intrusive thoughts
• A tight chest or shallow breathing
• Dizziness, chest pain, tension or restlessness
• A sense of unease and dread you can’t switch off

These symptoms are uncomfortable, but they are not medically dangerous.

 

Why Anxiety Gets Stuck

Anxiety tends to continue because of a simple cycle:

• A worrying thought triggers physical sensations
• Those sensations feel alarming
• The mind reacts to the sensations
• Anxiety increases

Trying to fight, suppress or constantly reassure yourself often keeps this cycle going – even though it feels like the right thing to do at the time.

Avoidance is a common response to anxiety – this brings immediate relief but keeps the pattern of anxiety running.

 

A Simple Way to Respond Differently

One helpful starting point is to respond to anxiety with calm acknowledgement rather than urgency.

When anxiety appears:

• Slow your breathing slightly
• Allow your shoulders to drop
• Remind yourself: “This is anxiety. It’s uncomfortable, but it will pass.”

This isn’t about forcing calm – it’s about giving your nervous system space to settle.

By learning how to respond calmly, you take away the fuel that can keep anxiety running.

 

Understanding Anxiety – Listen to the Full Episode

You can listen to the full episode here:

👉 Episode 1: Understanding Anxiety — and What Actually Help

I’d live to know what you think so please do drop me a message once you’ve had a listen.

 

Personalised Support

If anxiety is having a significant impact on your life, personalised support can help.

You can find out more about anxiety hypnotherapy in Ely, read reviews, or book a free consultation here: Book your free consultation

To your health and happiness,

Dan Regan

Anxiety Hypnotherapy in Ely and Newmarket

 

Could you use some help with anxiety in Ely, Newmarket or Online? Struggling with anxiety, stress, worry and fear and need some help? Contact me to book your Free Anxiety Consultation: Contact Dan

Find out what hundreds of other people have said after their anxiety hypnotherapy sessions in Ely with Dan: Hypnotherapy Testimonials

And check out these popular and powerful hypnosis downloads that can start helping you right away with anxiety, confidence and more: Hypnosis Downloads