Drew Linsalata
Drew Linsalata
The Truth About Rewiring An Anxious Brain | Ep 307
The Truth About Rewiring An Anxious Brain | Ep 307
The Truth About Rewiring An Anxious Brain | Ep 307
Wednesday 18th December 2024
Explore why typical brain rewiring methods might reinforce anxiety and learn how to create new pathways for recovery in Episode 307 of The Anxious Truth.
24 minutes
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Drew Linsalata
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Get the buttons here!Rewiring Anxiety: Debunking Brain Myths
Episode Overview
- Brain rewiring misconceptions can trap anxiety sufferers.
- Your brain doesn't have a delete button—only adds pathways.
- Embrace anxiety with openness to build new options.
- Rewiring involves real experiences, not just positive thinking.
- Recovery is personal; start where you are.
"Recovery isn't about eliminating anxiety; it's about building new pathways that offer choices when anxiety arises."
In Episode 307 of The Anxious Truth, Drew Linsalata dives deep into the concept of rewiring an anxious brain, a popular topic within anxiety recovery circles. Many find themselves stuck in repetitive anxiety patterns despite trying numerous techniques purported to rewire their brains. Drew, a therapist specializing in anxiety disorders and a former anxiety sufferer, challenges these common misconceptions and provides an insightful exploration into the science of neuroplasticity.
The episode begins by debunking the myth that our brains can delete anxiety responses. Drew emphasizes that the brain lacks a delete button. Instead, it is structured to learn and add information continually. This revelation is pivotal as it shifts the focus from attempting to erase anxiety to creating new neural pathways that offer alternative responses to anxiety triggers. Drew illustrates this concept with relatable examples, such as experiencing a racing heart or intrusive thoughts.
Instead of erasing these responses, which is impossible, the goal is to build new pathways alongside the old ones. For instance, when a racing heart triggers panic, the new pathway might suggest acknowledging the sensation as a normal anxious response rather than a sign of immediate danger. The process of rewiring involves embracing anxiety with openness and willingness, a concept Drew refers to as 'willful tolerance.' This approach contrasts sharply with conventional advice that often promotes anxiety as an enemy to be fought.
By adopting an attitude of openness toward anxiety, individuals can develop psychological flexibility and learn to navigate anxiety with more choices. Recovery is a personal journey, and Drew stresses the importance of starting from one's current state. Whether dealing with long-standing panic attacks or health anxiety stemming from medical scares, each individual's path to building new pathways is unique. Drew advocates for micro-exposures and small steps to gradually build resilience.
Ultimately, rewiring the anxious brain is not about managing symptoms or preventing anxiety, but rather about equipping oneself with options and alternatives when anxiety arises. Drew's message is clear: recovery involves real experiences that teach the brain through practice and repetition, fostering a sense of self-efficacy and capability. Listeners are encouraged to explore more resources at TheAnxiousTruth.com, where Drew offers books, workshops, and over 300 podcast episodes delving into various aspects of anxiety disorders and recovery.