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.

This brick wall can be a metaphor for our life.

Let’s pretend the book placed at the bottom of this wall represents adversity, trauma, and small, and yet significant life challenges.

If we do not acknowledge and process it, we will have no choice but to adapt around it.

In my many years of working with people, I have observed something quite interesting in relation to being anxious. I have learnt that an individual will carry the symptoms of anxiety, as listed above, but will not often understand the root cause of their suffering is often located within their relationships.