Managing Anxiety with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Episode Overview
Understand different types of anxiety disorders. Learn about Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Explore differences between CBT and ACT. Discover symptoms of generalized, social, and panic disorders. Gain practical strategies for managing anxiety.
"Controlling your brain so that you're thinking the right thoughts is challenging because it comes out of the blue."
How does one deal with the pervasive grip of anxiety in today's fast-paced world? In this episode of 'Life Unscripted - Stories of Mental Health and Addiction,' host Janice Arnoldi invites Steve Abma, a registered psychotherapist, to share insights on anxiety and the role of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in managing it.
With the prevalence of anxiety disorders on the rise, Steve sheds light on the different types of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. He explains how the constant connectivity of modern life can exacerbate these conditions, making them more common than ever before. Steve delves into the symptoms of each disorder, highlighting the physical and mental toll they take on individuals.
From the persistent feeling of dread in generalized anxiety disorder to the debilitating fear of social situations in social anxiety disorder, he breaks down how these conditions manifest and affect everyday life. Steve also clarifies the difference between panic attacks and anxiety attacks, explaining that panic attacks often involve a fear of losing control or dying, while anxiety attacks are characterized by a general sense of unease. The episode further explores how ACT differs from traditional cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT).
While CBT focuses on changing specific thoughts and behaviours, ACT encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than trying to control them. Steve highlights how mindfulness can be a powerful tool in managing anxiety, as it allows individuals to acknowledge their thoughts without letting them take over. Are you or someone you know struggling with anxiety?
Tune in to this episode for practical strategies and insights from an expert that could help pave the way to a more peaceful mind.