Shifting Gears: Understanding and Managing Anxiety

Anxiety is something we all experience. Whether it's going on a first date, taking a test, or trying something adventurous for the first time, many life circumstances can create anxiety. But does everyone experience anxiety in the same way? The answer is no. There is a difference in how anxiety manifests and affects individuals.

For some people, anxious thoughts occur, but their brain chemistry remains intact. This means they have proper levels of epinephrine, cortisol, and serotonin. These chemical balances allow them to feel anxious momentarily and then return to a normal emotional state. These brain chemicals play a critical role in regulating emotions and environmental anxiety.

However, when these chemicals are imbalanced—such as elevated cortisol, insufficient epinephrine, or excessive serotonin—it can lead to clinical anxiety. Brain chemistry imbalances can result in catastrophic thinking, unreasonable thoughts that invade one’s mind, fixation on particular ideas or feelings, negative self-talk, panic, a sense of being overwhelmed, and an inability to escape one’s thoughts.

Everyday Anxiety vs. Clinical Anxiety

While both types involve anxious feelings, the distinction lies in the brain’s chemical makeup. To better understand this, consider the analogy of two types of cars that look identical from the outside but are fundamentally different internally: a stick shift and an automatic.

An automatic car is simpler to operate. It has two pedals: one to accelerate and one to stop. The transmission shifts gears on its own, allowing the car to move forward seamlessly without requiring intervention from the driver. Similarly, a person with everyday anxiety may feel anxious for a moment, but their body recognizes the feeling and their brain’s chemical processes automatically work to calm them down.

In contrast, a stick shift car requires more effort from the operator. It has three pedals: one to accelerate, one to stop, and a clutch. The driver must actively listen for cues that the transmission needs to shift gears and press the clutch to ensure the car transitions smoothly. Without this intervention, the car can stall and stop working. Similarly, a person with clinical anxiety must actively engage with their anxiety. They need to recognize the signs and use tools or techniques to manage it. Without these interventions, their anxiety can escalate and become overwhelming.

Managing Clinical Anxiety

If you have chemical-based anxiety, simply acknowledging it isn’t enough. You must take action to prevent it from overwhelming you and stopping you from living the life you desire. Using tools and techniques is not optional—it is essential.

So, if you’re feeling like you can’t handle your anxiety, don’t beat yourself up. It’s not your fault that your brain chemistry is imbalanced, but it is something you need to manage. Mastering the tools and techniques to regulate your anxiety is like mastering the clutch in a stick shift car. With practice and effort, you can learn to navigate through anxious moments more effectively.

Conclusion

Your chemical imbalance is not your fault, but managing it is your responsibility. With the right tools, techniques, and mindset, you can take control of your anxiety. Master the clutch. Master your tools and techniques. You’ve got this!