What if anxiety isn’t a flaw — but a misunderstood response to the way your mind imagines the future? In this episode, Dr. Andrew Blackwood breaks down what anxiety actually is, why your body reacts to thoughts as if they’re real, and how specific thought patterns quietly fuel overthinking, spirals, and self-doubt. We explore why anxiety can sometimes protect you — and when it starts to hijack your life. Dr. Blackwood introduces the ATI process (Awareness, Tolerance, Intention) and unpacks the most common anxiety-producing thought patterns. You’ll learn practical exit strategies for each pattern alongside how to calm your nervous system before changing your thoughts. Whether you struggle with overthinking, self-criticism, or feeling stuck in your own head, this episode offers a clear framework to understand why you feel anxious — and how to respond with clarity, compassion, and control.

Dr. Andrew L. Blackwood Known as Coach Drew, is a mental health professional who has worked as a psychotherapist, family clinician, and marriage and family therapist. Drawing from both personal experience and professional practice, Dr. Blackwood helps people build emotional resilience, self-awareness, and healthier inner lives.

Coach Drew Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/coachdrewcan/?hl=en

BOOK 📚: The Art of a Genuine Apology

https://www.amazon.com/Art-Genuine-Apology-significant-relationships/dp/1775054802

Reach Out: https://www.instagram.com/rishikurada/

Intro Song Credits: Song: Cartoon, Jéja - On & On (feat. Daniel Levi) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/onandon Watch: http://youtu.be/K4DyBUG242c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LohNAtR5av4 - Instrumental

How to Deal With Anxious Thoughts - Dr. Andrew Blackwood | #29