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All In The Mind

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

  • The Certainty Myth

The Certainty Myth

Thursday 17th November 2022

Explore why uncertainty freaks us out and learn practical strategies for managing anxiety with clinical psychologist Toni Lindsay.
 
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All In The Mind
Author:
ABC Radio
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Categories:
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Parenting & Children
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The Certainty Myth: Embracing Life's Unpredictability

Episode Overview

  • Understanding uncertainty is crucial for managing anxiety.
  • Avoidance can exacerbate anxiety; facing it can diminish its power.
  • Mindfulness and routine can help ground us in moments of uncertainty.
  • Recognising your 'anxiety story' is a powerful tool for management.
  • Acceptance doesn't mean being okay with the situation but acknowledging emotions.
We often overestimate how bad the uncertain thing will be, and underestimate our ability to cope with things when they show up.
What drives someone to seek a life without certainty? This episode of 'All In The Mind' tackles the discomfort we all feel with uncertainty and why it freaks us out. Clinical psychologist Toni Lindsay shares her experiences from working with cancer patients, offering insights into how the mind processes uncertainty and the anxiety it often brings. She discusses the evolutionary aspect of our preference for certainty and how our brains tend to problem-solve when faced with the unknown.
You'll hear about the 'avoidance paradox,' where avoiding anxiety can make it worse, and how recognising your 'anxiety story' can be a powerful tool in managing it. Toni also highlights practical strategies like mindfulness and routine, which can help ground us in moments of uncertainty. Her anecdotes, including stories from her clinic, reveal the human tendency to underestimate our ability to cope with difficult situations.
If you've ever found yourself overwhelmed by uncertainty, this episode offers relatable stories and useful advice to help you find some peace. Are you ready to drop the rope and embrace the unknown?
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