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Resource · Anxiety

Practice doing something different when anxiety shows up.

Change can take time. Repeating the same pattern can be hard, too.

Before you start

How to use this resource

A three-minute read. Then make a plan for one real moment.

Why practice matters

Your brain learns what you repeat.

Knowing and wanting to change is not enough.

  • Choose one behavior to practice.
  • Decide when you’ll try it.
  • Repeat it when a similar moment comes up.

Neuroplasticity means the brain can change through experience. With repetition, a behavior can become more familiar. There is no set number of tries or timeline.

A line to keep

You do not need confidence before you practice.

A small example

Make the plan fit a real moment.

Jordan needs to clarify a deadline with his professor. He feels anxious and keeps putting off the message.

  • His plan: “Before class tomorrow, I will send my professor one clear question.”
  • Next time: He can use this plan again when a new question comes up.
Remember

Taking care of your health, setting boundaries, and preparing thoughtfully are ways to protect yourself and keep going. This practice does not ask you to put yourself at risk.

What the evidence says

Evidence for structured treatments.

NICE guidance describes specific, structured Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches for social anxiety, including graduated exposure and cognitive restructuring. For adults with generalized anxiety disorder, NICE recommends structured CBT or applied relaxation at specified treatment steps. These recommendations do not show that this brief, self-guided resource is an effective treatment.

Read the NICE recommendations
Your practice

Choose a situation. Write a plan you can try.

Choose a real moment, write one behavior you want to practice, and try it when the plan still fits and is safe.

One situation. Your own plan. Practice in real life.

Want help putting this into practice?

We can work on it together, at a pace that fits you.

Book a free consultation →

In crisis? Call or text 988 or call 911. This resource supports care; it does not replace it.

Designed by Manuel Acosta, LMHC · Florida License MH25780 · Telehealth throughout Florida · English / Español
© 2026 Manuel Aurelio Acosta, LMHC, LLC. Free to use and share with credit.