Anxiety Unveiled: Managing Anxiety as a High-Achieving Working Mother

Today, we want to delve into a topic that resonates deeply with many of us - anxiety.

Specifically, we will be focusing on high functioning anxiety and how it affects high achievers, overachievers, and those who strive for excellence in their personal and professional lives.

I had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Jodi Richardson, a renowned expert in well-being science and the author of "Anxious Kids" and "Anxious Mums." Dr. Richardson shares her insights, experiences, and strategies for managing anxiety in a way that empowers us all.

During the conversation, Dr. Richardson sheds light on the science behind anxiety and how it manifests in different individuals. We will explore the physical and psychological symptoms that accompany anxiety, as well as the impact of anxiety on our well-being and energy levels.

As working mothers, we often find ourselves juggling numerous responsibilities, both at home and in the workplace. The pressures and demands can sometimes lead to feelings of overwhelm and stress. By understanding how anxiety affects us, we can better navigate these challenges and find a sense of balance.

One aspect that Dr. Richardson will discuss is the concept of sensory thresholds. While traditionally associated with individuals on the autism spectrum, sensory thresholds are something that all of us possess. The low threshold for noise, for example, that Dr. Richardson mentions can be relatable for many working mothers who crave moments of peace and quiet amidst the chaos.

Additionally, we will explore the different states of the nervous system - the ventral vagal (rest and digest), sympathetic (fight or flight), and dorsal vagal (shutdown, freeze, numbing, dissociation). Understanding these states can help us recognise when we are experiencing anxiety and take steps to regulate our nervous system, shifting back into the restorative ventral vagal state.

Dr. Richardson provides practical strategies for managing anxiety, such as engaging in a morning routine, incorporating physical movement, and utilising our senses to shift our attention from worry to our bodies.

We believe that Dr. Richardson's insights will not only resonate with high achievers seeking guidance but will also be valuable to anyone curious about understanding and managing anxiety. Furthermore, her unique blend of professionalism and relatability will provide a refreshing perspective in the mental health space.

Together, we can navigate the challenges of anxiety and thrive in our roles as working mothers.

You can listen to the episode here: https://wisdomforworkingmums.co.uk/124 or via itunes or spotify. Or you can find it on most other podcast platforms and apps.

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