You've read the books, downloaded the apps, practised the breathing exercises, tried to "reframe" your thoughts. You've been to the GP, perhaps tried medication. You've journaled, meditated, done the self-care Sundays. And still, the anxiety clings to you like a second skin. The depression pulls you under again and again. The overwhelm doesn't budge.

And somewhere in the back of your mind, a voice whispers: What's wrong with me? Why can't I fix this?

When we only address the symptom, whether it's overeating, withdrawal, or people-pleasing, we're applying a temporary bandage rather than treating the wound beneath. True healing begins when we ask ourselves: ‘What is my anxiety trying to tell me?’

Behind excessive control might be a fear of uncertainty. Behind withdrawal could be a fear of judgment. Behind anger might be a feeling of vulnerability that feels too uncomfortable to acknowledge.