How to Manage Anxiety When it Comes Knocking

Anxiety at Your Door: What If You Invited It In?

Anxiety is a common emotion that many people struggle to manage. Do you ever feel like you're sitting in your house, minding your own business, when out of the corner of your eye, you see Anxiety walk past your window?

Wait—what? How can that be? Why is Anxiety even here? You quickly close the curtains. You mustn’t make eye contact! Maybe you’re in the clear.

KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK

No—you didn’t even make eye contact! Anxiety can’t know you’re home. You pull a blanket over your head, desperately ignoring the knock at the door.

But the knocking gets louder.

“Hello, I know you’re in there. Open the door.” Anxiety calls out.

Your heart races, your chest tightens, and your breath turns shallow. You might even feel like you’re going to be sick.

And then, before you know it, Anxiety has barged into your living room. Fear sits shaking on the couch, while Shame whispers, “You shouldn’t have let Anxiety in.” Overwhelm sighs,

“Wow, this room is getting crowded.”

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What If You Invited Anxiety In?

Let’s rewind.

You’re sitting in your house, and you see Anxiety walking by. But this time, instead of hiding, you open the curtains, give a small smile, and wave. Anxiety hesitates, then waves back.

You walk to the front door, take a deep breath, and open it.

“Hey, come on in.”

Instead of slamming the door shut, you choose curiosity. Why was Anxiety passing by? What message does it have for you? When we allow ourselves to listen, Anxiety doesn’t have to bang on the door or force its way in. When we acknowledge it, the other emotions—Fear, shame, and overwhelming—may not even need to join the party.

Feeling Too Big?

Welcoming Anxiety instead of resisting it might feel overwhelming at first. If it feels too big, that’s okay. You don’t have to do it alone. A therapist can help you explore how to manage anxiety in a way that feels safe and supportive.

If you’d like help navigating anxiety, I’m here. You can reach me at Danielle@morrancounsellingtherapy.com.

You don’t have to face anxiety alone.