LibraryScenariosWhen mindful breathing exercises backfire and increase anxiety
Scenario

When mindful breathing exercises backfire and increase anxiety

My therapist told me to notice my breath when I'm anxious but every time I pay attention to it I feel more panicked, not less.

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More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

The instruction to observe what feels out of control can amplify rather than soothe our sense of internal chaos.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Respiratory health and breathing?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.