Insights from Therapist Lauren Kelley
Letting them know that the magic is in not trying to run from it—but instead, meeting it.
In a recent conversation with Lauren Kelley, a therapist here at The Happy Hour, we explored the role anxiety plays in our lives, and how it can hold us back from feeling present, connected, and fully alive.
The first step, Lauren explains, is recognizing that anxiety is often trying to tell us something. Whether or not we choose to listen, it won’t simply disappear. In fact, the more we try to run from anxiety, the stronger it tends to become.
Many people’s anxiety stems from deeply held negative beliefs about themselves. It’s like looking at life through a distorted lens—one that doesn’t feel clear, secure, or safe. Common fears like Am I good enough?, Do I belong?, or Will I be rejected? are experiences most of us encounter at some point. For some, these fears become more intense or persistent.
It’s important to understand anxiety in proportion. A manageable level of anxiety can be useful; it can motivate us or signal when something needs attention. But when anxiety becomes overwhelming or out of proportion to the situation, it can disrupt our ability to function and thrive.
To help clients manage anxiety, Lauren often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a psychological approach that explores the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT techniques include identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, examining evidence for and against those beliefs, developing alternative perspectives, and practicing new, healthier behaviors.
The message is clear: you don’t need to fear your anxiety. The real shift begins when you stop running and start listening.