Anxiety is a prevalent mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Defined as an intense and persistent fear or worry about certain situations or objects, anxiety can make even the simplest of tasks feel incredibly challenging. It’s not uncommon for those with anxiety to question whether pushing through their fears is the right way to handle it. In this blog post, we’ll explore this topic with a psychotherapist’s perspective on whether it’s okay to push through different types of anxiety.
First off, it’s essential to understand that everyone is different when it comes to anxiety. While some may find pushing through their fears beneficial, others may find it only exacerbates their anxiety. It’s vital to evaluate your unique situation and what triggers your anxiety before deciding to push through it. It’s best to consult with a professional, through psychotherapy or counselling, to receive appropriate guidance. A therapist can help you identify the root cause of your anxiety and provide personalized coping strategies.
Secondly, pushing through your anxiety can sometimes be helpful in situations where your anxiety triggers are not life-threatening. For example, if public speaking gives you anxiety, pushing through and giving a speech could be rewarding and boost your confidence. However, you need to set reasonable expectations for yourself. Pushing through a situation that is way beyond your capabilities could lead to negative outcomes and potentially worsen your anxiety.
Thirdly, some individuals find that pushing through and exposing themselves repeatedly to their anxiety triggers helps them overcome them. This process is known as exposure therapy and is often used in treating phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It’s a gradual process where one is gradually exposed to their fears, helping to desensitize the individual to them. Exposure therapy can be beneficial, but it should always be carried out under the guidance of a professional therapist.
Fourthly, it is essential to note that pushing through anxiety continuously can be harmful and lead to burnout, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Anxiety is a mental health condition that requires self-care and rest to prevent it from consuming you. Breaks are necessary for your mental health, and it’s okay to take time off from situations that trigger your anxiety to do something that can help you relax and recharge.
In conclusion, whether pushing through your anxiety is okay or not depends on your unique situation and triggers. Seeking guidance from a professional psychotherapist or counselor can help you evaluate your situation and identify coping strategies that work for you. It’s important to understand that pushing through anxiety can sometimes be beneficial in some cases like exposure therapy. However, overburdening yourself continuously can lead to burnout and worsen your symptoms. Always remember to prioritize your self-care and take breaks when necessary.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Josh Zettel, Psychotherapist, or another psychotherapist in Waterloo or Kitchener at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
