CBT for Anxiety: How changes thoughts can ease worry

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges in the UK, affecting millions of people every year. It can feel overwhelming, creating persistent worry, physical tension, and avoidance of everyday situations. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective treatment that helps people manage and reduce anxiety by addressing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours.

How CBT Works for Anxiety
CBT helps you understand the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Anxiety often arises from anticipating danger or negative outcomes. For example, someone might think, “If I speak in a meeting, I will embarrass myself,” which leads to avoidance and heightened anxiety. CBT teaches you to recognise these thoughts, test their accuracy, and develop more balanced perspectives.

Examples of Techniques Used in CBT for Anxiety

- Worry Management: Learning to manage worries so that they do not rule your life
- Cognitive Restructuring: Challenging unrealistic beliefs and replacing them with realistic alternatives. 
- Exposure Therapy: Gradually facing feared situations to reduce avoidance and build confidence. 
- Relaxation Training: Techniques such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to manage physical symptoms of anxiety. 
- Behavioural Experiments: Testing out predictions to see if feared outcomes actually occur.

Practical Example
Someone with social anxiety may avoid group settings due to fear of judgment. In CBT, they would start with small, manageable social interactions, monitor their thoughts, and notice that feared outcomes are often exaggerated. Over time, confidence grows, and anxiety decreases. If this sounds like you, contact me today.

FAQs About CBT for Anxiety
Q: How long does CBT for anxiety take? 
A: Typically, 12–20 sessions, but this can vary depending on individual needs. 

Q: Is CBT suitable for all types of anxiety? 
A: CBT is effective for generalised anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, phobias, and health anxiety.

Final Thoughts
Anxiety doesn’t have to control your life. CBT provides practical strategies to regain control, reduce worry, and improve daily functioning. 

If you’re ready to take the first step towards managing anxiety, contact me today to explore your options in a supportive, confidential setting.