LibraryScenariosWhen Mindful Attention Makes Anxiety Worse
Scenario

When Mindful Attention Makes Anxiety Worse

I know my anxiety lives in my stomach but when I try to breathe into it the feeling gets bigger and scarier.

Patan
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Direct attention to somatic anxiety without proper support can intensify rather than resolve the sensation.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Mental health and physical health intersection?”

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