A Healthy Push

Have you ever felt like anxiety came out of nowhere and completely took over? This week's guest, Elizabeth, shares her powerful story of going from a fiercely independent, active life to being suddenly debilitated by panic attacks and physical sensations that left her feeling like her "body was on fire."Elizabeth opens up about her journey over the past year, from frantic ER visits and avoiding driving to the profound awakening that helped her heal. Her story is a testament to the power of slowing down, giving yourself grace, and finally learning to feel your emotions instead of stuffing them down.We discuss the frustrating pressure to find a "quick fix" and the realization that true progress isn't the absence of anxiety, but how you learn to show up for yourself through it. If you've ever felt isolated by your anxiety or believed you were too "strong" to be struggling, this episode is a must-listen.In this episode, we discuss:How anxiety can seemingly appear out of nowhere, even without a prior history.The frustrating search for answers and the cycle of trying "all the things" to get rid of the feeling.A powerful breakdown of physical anxiety symptoms and what it truly feels like when your "body is on fire."The long-term impact of suppressing emotions and how it can lead to an overflow of anxiety.How debilitating panic can make everyday activities like driving or being alone feel impossible.The turning point: shifting from resisting anxiety to acknowledging and feeling your emotions.The role that high-stress jobs and relationship strain can play in triggering anxiety.The "awakening" that led to setting boundaries, leaving a job that no longer served her, and reconnecting with her true self.Heartfelt words of wisdom for anyone who feels lost in the thick of panic and anxiety right now.CHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/

Let’s be real… when you’re struggling with anxiety, panic, or feeling disconnected from your body, it’s so easy to fall into the trap of chasing quick fixes. But what if the real magic comes from the simple, not-so-flashy stuff?In this episode, I’m joined by Courtney Kramer, an IFS and somatic therapist, and we’re talking all about the foundational tools that actually help... like observation, naming your emotions, tuning into sensations, and building a deeper connection with your body. You know… the things that seem too boring or basic to be effective, but are totally life-changing when you stick with them.Courtney shares so beautifully about how slowing down, noticing, and reconnecting with yourself in gentle, sustainable ways can shift everything, especially when you’re used to being stuck in your head or fighting your emotions.We chat about:Why healing often feels slow, repetitive, and… kinda boring (and why that’s not a bad thing!)What it really means to build a relationship with your body and emotionsHow to use tools like the emotion wheel, sensations list, and observation in everyday lifeWhy pacing and permission are SO important when you’re doing somatic workHow these practices build safety, trust, and confidence over timeThis conversation is full of validation, encouragement, and practical tools you can start using today, especially if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or stuck in your healing journey.CHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/the-non-sexy-somatic-practices-that-lead-to-real-healing-with-courtney-kramer

One of the most common fears I hear is: What if Panic to Peace doesn’t work for me? And I get it! When you’ve been struggling with anxiety, panic disorder, or agoraphobia for so long, doubt and fear can feel overwhelming.So in this episode, I’m answering the biggest questions I get about Panic to Peace, including:What if I join and it doesn’t work?How is Panic to Peace different from therapy or other programs?What if I’m too “broken” or “too far gone?"What if I fail?What if the cost feels like too much?What’s the difference between the live and self-paced versions?You’ll hear real stories from past students who were once skeptical, scared, or convinced that recovery wasn’t possible for them, but who went on to make life-changing progress.If you’ve been on the fence about joining Panic to Peace, I hope this conversation helps you feel reassured, supported, and confident about what’s possible for you.SIGN UP FOR PANIC TO PEACE HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peace

I can hardly believe this is the 200th episode of A Healthy Push Podcast! 🎉 When I first started, I had no idea what I was doing. I just knew I wanted to share my story in hopes it could help others. And now, 200 episodes later, I’m more grateful than ever for this community and the work I get to do alongside you!In this special, personal episode, I’m opening up about the real reasons why I stayed stuck in anxiety, panic disorder, and agoraphobia for 15 years. Because let’s be honest, no one should have to struggle that long.If you’ve ever wondered why your recovery feels so hard or why progress seems slow, you might see yourself in my story. I’ll share the six biggest patterns that kept me stuck and how shifting them helped me finally move forward.Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:Why constantly searching for causes and quick fixes actually made things worseHow problem-solving and overanalyzing kept me from truly healingThe trap of “white knuckling” through anxiety and exposuresThe role unprocessed trauma and unhealthy coping strategies played in my struggleHow shame, perfectionism, and hiding my struggles led to isolationThe importance of actually supporting and caring for yourself in recoveryMost importantly, I want you to know this: healing doesn’t have to take years, and it doesn’t have to be so hard.SIGN UP FOR PANIC TO PEACE HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/the-biggest-reasons-i-struggled-with-anxiety-panic-disorder-and-agoraphobia-for-15-years

When you’ve been struggling with anxiety, panic disorder, or agoraphobia for a while, it’s not just the fear that weighs on you. There are so many heavy emotions that creep in... comparison, grief, anger, hopelessness, shame, isolation, exhaustion, fear of the future, and self-doubt.In this episode, I’m getting really honest about these emotions, how they often show up, and why they’re actually a normal part of the recovery journey. I’ll share pieces of my own experience and what I hear from my students and clients all the time, so that you can feel seen, validated, and far less alone.I dive into:Why comparison (to your past self or others) can feel so crushing, and how to respond with compassion instead.How grief shows up in anxiety recovery and why acknowledging it is so important.The role of anger, hopelessness, and shame, and why they often signal deeper pain that needs attention.How isolation, exhaustion, and fear of the future make recovery feel even heavier.The truth about self-doubt, and the small but powerful flickers of hope that remind you healing is possible.If you’ve been carrying any of these emotions, I want you to know you are not broken and you are not failing. These feelings are part of the process, and with support and compassion, recovery is absolutely possible.SIGN UP FOR MY FREE LIVE CLASS - HOW TO BUILD TRUST & SAFETY IN YOURSELF: https://www.ahealthypush.com/trustGET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/hidden-emotional-struggles-of-anxiety

What happens when panic and anxiety take over so much of your life that even walking to the mailbox feels impossible? In this powerful conversation, former Panic to Peace student Mila shares her journey through anxiety, panic attacks, and agoraphobia, and how she slowly began rebuilding self-trust and freedom.We dive into:Experiencing anxiety as early as childhood and the shame that came with itThe terrifying panic attack that struck while driving across a bridge in New YorkHow her world became smaller and smaller until she felt completely trappedThe turning point that led her to seek out community and supportWhy nervous system work, self-compassion, and small, consistent steps made such a difference in her recoveryThis conversation is raw, real, and full of hope. If you’ve ever felt alone in your struggle with anxiety or agoraphobia, Mila’s story will remind you that healing is possible and that you don’t have to face it all on your own.SIGN UP FOR MY FREE LIVE CLASS - HOW TO BUILD TRUST & SAFETY IN YOURSELF: https://www.ahealthypush.com/trustGET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/agoraphobia-recovery-story-mila

If you’ve ever felt like you’ve tried everything to overcome panic and anxiety but nothing seems to work, you’re going to connect so deeply with today’s conversation.Louise, a Panic to Peace graduate from Australia, has been navigating panic and anxiety since her teens. For decades she tried it all... therapy, strategies, exposure, meditation, journaling, yoga, only to find herself stuck in the same exhausting cycle. She felt like something was fundamentally wrong with her, and that maybe she’d be dealing with panic forever.But this year, everything shifted.Inside Panic to Peace, Louise discovered what had really been keeping her stuck: the constant fight to “fix” herself, the endless search for strategies, and the lack of compassion for her own emotions. In this episode, she shares how learning to stop digging, practicing self-compassion, and approaching her experiences with more curiosity has helped her finally find real relief and trust in herself.We talk about:Louise’s decades-long struggle with panic and anxiety, and why strategies weren’t workingHow grief and unprocessed emotions can fuel anxietyThe mindset shifts that helped her stop trying to “fix” herself and start healingWhy self-compassion (and even letting herself cry!) has been so powerful in her recoveryThe wins she’s experienced in just a few months, and how she’s building confidence for the futureThis conversation is full of honesty, hope, and inspiration. Whether you’ve been struggling for months or decades, Louise’s story is a beautiful reminder that recovery is absolutely possible for you, too.SIGN UP FOR MY FREE LIVE CLASS - HOW TO BUILD TRUST & SAFETY IN YOURSELF: https://www.ahealthypush.com/trustGET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/from-decades-of-anxiety-panic-to-finding-real-relief-with-p2p-student-louise

This week’s episode is extra special because I’m joined by someone who knows this world really well, both personally and professionally. Mari is not only my podcast editor (so she’s behind the scenes every single week!), but she’s also someone who’s recovered from panic disorder and agoraphobia.In this episode, Mari and I sit down for a Q&A and answer some of the biggest questions that so many of us have asked while struggling with anxiety, panic, and agoraphobia, like:Why do I freak out when I feel stuck or trapped?Why do I still get panic attacks even though I “know what’s happening”?I’ve tried therapy, breathing, journaling… why isn’t anything helping long-term?I feel like I’m constantly on edge even when nothing is ‘wrong.’ I can't seem to relax. Why do I feel this way?Why does anxiety show up in places I used to feel safe?I hate how small my world has gotten. I used to do so much, and now everything feels like a big deal. Will I ever feel like myself again?We share personal experiences, practical tools, and lots of validation (because you are so not alone in what you’re going through). And honestly, this conversation is full of hope... because recovery is possible.If you’ve been feeling stuck, discouraged, or like your world has gotten really small, I know this episode will help you feel seen and remind you that you can move forward in really powerful ways.SIGN UP FOR MY FREE LIVE CLASS - HOW TO BUILD TRUST & SAFETY IN YOURSELF: https://www.ahealthypush.com/trustGET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/feeling-stuck-panicky-or-on-edge-let-s-talk-about-it

Does it ever feel like the more you work on healing, the worse your anxiety gets? Like you're finally taking action, doing the hard things, and showing up for yourself, yet your symptoms feel louder, your panic shows up more often, and it’s just... overwhelming?In this episode, I’m walking you through 5 powerful reasons why this reaction is not a setback, it’s actually a sign of real progress and healing. I’ll help you understand why feeling more doesn’t mean failure, and how to gently reframe what’s happening in your mind and body as you create safety, awareness, and new patterns.This conversation is for you if you’ve ever thought:“Why do I feel worse even though I’m doing the work?”“I thought I was getting better, but now I’m spiraling again.”“What if I lose the progress I’ve made?”Let’s untangle this together and remind you that your body isn’t breaking down... it’s releasing, rewiring, and healing.SIGN UP FOR MY FREE LIVE CLASS - HOW TO BUILD TRUST & SAFETY IN YOURSELF: https://www.ahealthypush.com/trustGET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/why-it-feels-like-your-anxiety-is-getting-worse-even-when-you-re-healing

So many of us are feeling disconnected, lonely, and unsure of how to build meaningful support, and if you struggle with anxiety, panic disorder, or agoraphobia, this can feel even more intense. In this episode, I’m joined by writer, poet, and integrative health coach Casey Molina for a heartfelt and eye-opening conversation about the role true community plays in our mental and emotional well-being.We talk about the difference between having friends and having community, why connection can feel so hard (or even inconvenient), and how our culture of individualism and instant gratification impacts our ability to show up for ourselves and others.Whether you’re craving deeper connection or simply wondering why loneliness feels so heavy these days, this conversation will help you feel seen, and remind you that you're not alone in feeling this way.We chat about:The difference between friendships and real communityWhy community can feel so hard to build (especially when you're anxious)The emotional toll of isolation and how it fuels anxietyWhy small, intentional steps can help you start building meaningful supportWhat you have to offer others, and how giving can be healingThe role of vulnerability, self-compassion, and unlearning in creating connectionHow to move from craving community to actually creating itCHECK OUT MY PRIVATE AHP COMMUNITY: https://www.ahealthypush.com/communityTAKE MY FREE QUIZ AND FIND OUT WHAT'S CAUSING YOU TO STAY STUCK: https://www.ahealthypush.com/blocking-quizA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/craving-connection-why-community-is-so-vital-to-your-mental-health-with-casey-molina

If you’ve ever felt like your anxiety lives in your stomach, you’re not alone. Digestive issues like nausea, bloating, urgency, cramping, and food sensitivity are incredibly common, and incredibly frustrating, when you're dealing with anxiety and panic.In this episode, I’m sharing my personal experience with years of daily stomach symptoms, constant testing, food fear, and the anxiety spiral that so many of you know all too well.We’ll dive into:The powerful connection between your brain and your gutWhy your symptoms aren’t all in your head (but also not all about anxiety)The pain points of living with stomach anxietyWhy endless medical testing doesn’t always give you answersWhat actually helps - without restriction, obsession, or shameWhether you’ve struggled with IBS, panic around bathroom access, or food avoidance, this episode will help you feel seen and give you real tools to begin healing.FREEDOM FROM TOILET ANXIETY: https://www.ahealthypush.com/toilet-anxietyFEAR TO FREEDOM: FACING PANIC AND AVOIDANCE WITH CONFIDENCE - WITHOUT IT FEELING SO HARD: https://www.ahealthypush.com/fear-to-freedomTAKE MY FREE QUIZ AND FIND OUT WHAT'S CAUSING YOU TO STAY STUCK: https://www.ahealthypush.com/blocking-quizA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/is-it-anxiety-or-your-stomach-understanding-the-gut-anxiety-connection

Let’s be honest... panic attacks freaking suck! Sometimes, you don’t need a mindset shift or a breathing technique, you just need someone to say, “Yep, this is really hard, and you’re not crazy for feeling this way.” In this episode, I’m keeping it real. I’m sharing some of my most intense, emotional, and yes, even funny panic attack stories to remind you that you’re not alone and you’re definitely not broken. Whether you've had one panic attack or a thousand, this episode is for you. It's part rant, part real talk, part deep validation, and (hopefully) a part of your healing journey.We’ll talk about:The panic attacks that left me speeding down back roads or jumping curbs in drive-thrus (yep, seriously)What it really feels like in your body and mind when you're mid-panicWhy panic disorder leaves you feeling unsafe and disconnected from yourselfThe harm panic can cause (even if it’s “just anxiety”)Why it’s totally okay to say “F*ck panic attacks” and still healWhat I wish someone had said to me when I was strugglingThis one is raw, vulnerable, and packed with truth. So if you're deep in it right now, know this: You are not broken. You’re not weak. You are healing, even if it doesn’t feel like it.FEAR TO FREEDOM: FACING PANIC AND AVOIDANCE WITH CONFIDENCE - WITHOUT IT FEELING SO HARD: https://www.ahealthypush.com/fear-to-freedomOVERCOMING THE SYMPTOMS & PANIC ATTACKS: https://www.ahealthypush.com/symptomsTAKE MY FREE QUIZ AND FIND OUT WHAT'S CAUSING YOU TO STAY STUCK: https://www.ahealthypush.com/blocking-quizA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/f-ck-panic-attacks-seriously

Avoidance is something we all do, especially when it comes to anxiety, panic, and agoraphobia, but it’s also what keeps us stuck. So I've dedicated an entire conversation to unpacking avoidance: why it happens, how it shows up (even in sneaky ways), and what’s really at the root of it. Because I don't want you to stay stuck!From fear of feeling to perfectionism and a lack of self-trust, I break down the most common reasons people avoid and helps you understand that avoidance isn’t weakness, it's a normal human response. Most importantly, I share what it actually takes to begin facing your fears without white-knuckling your way through.I dive into:Why avoidance feels like relief (but keeps you stuck)The fear of feeling and how it fuels avoidanceHow past experiences with anxiety shape present-day avoidanceThe role of self-trust in recoveryWhy exposure therapy might not have worked for you, and what to do insteadHow perfectionism, shame, and overwhelm contribute to avoidanceSteps to start building real safety and trust with yourself and your nervous systemFEAR TO FREEDOM: FACING PANIC AND AVOIDANCE WITH CONFIDENCE - WITHOUT IT FEELING SO HARD: https://www.ahealthypush.com/fear-to-freedomTAKE MY FREE QUIZ AND FIND OUT WHAT'S CAUSING YOU TO STAY STUCK: https://www.ahealthypush.com/blocking-quizA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/you-re-not-weak-here-s-why-you-re-avoiding-your-fears-and-what-to-do-about-it

Ever find yourself caught in a loop of anxious thoughts, panic, or overwhelm? You’re not alone. This used to be me every single day!In this episode, I get real about what it looks like to spiral, and more importantly, how to compassionately support yourself through it. From reframing your thoughts to taking gentle, supportive actions, I share practical tools and encouragement to help you navigate these tough moments without making things worse.I dive into:What “spiraling” really looks like (it’s not always dramatic!)The mental, emotional, physical, behavioral, and even existential signs of spiralingWhy trying not to spiral often makes things worseHow to reframe spiraling so it doesn’t feel like a setbackPractical steps to move through a spiral with compassionThe role of stress, life transitions, and perfectionism in fueling anxietyWhy doing less (not more) is often the answerHOW TO RESPOND TO ANXIETY AND PANIC WITHOUT SPIRALING: https://www.ahealthypush.com/symptomsGET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceTAKE MY FREE QUIZ AND FIND OUT WHAT'S CAUSING YOU TO STAY STUCK: https://www.ahealthypush.com/blocking-quizA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/what-to-do-when-you-re-spiraling-from-anxiety

So much has been happening behind the scenes, and in this episode, I’m finally sitting down to catch you up! From finalizing my divorce and moving into a new apartment, to changing my name, starting therapy again, and even beginning a new relationship. This season of life has been full of transition, growth, and deep healing.I’m sharing what it’s really looked like to navigate big life changes while still showing up for myself, my daughter, and my community. If you’re in the middle of your own messy chapter, I hope this reminds you that healing doesn’t have to be perfect, and you don’t have to have it all figured out to take steps forward.GET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceTAKE MY FREE QUIZ AND FIND OUT WHAT'S CAUSING YOU TO STAY STUCK: https://www.ahealthypush.com/blocking-quizCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/life-lately-divorce-healing-moving-and-a-new-relationship

What happens when the life you built no longer feels like home, and the decision to leave brings not just grief, but deep anxiety and self-doubt?I’m joined by therapist and mom Stacey Sherrell for a raw, honest conversation about the emotional realities of divorce. We talk about what it really looks like to leave a long-term relationship while parenting, navigating anxiety, and trying to rediscover who you are outside of a relationship.From the years of quiet inner conflict, to the overwhelming anxiety that followed her separation, Stacey shares her story with vulnerability, insight, and so much heart. Whether you’re in the thick of a hard decision or learning to trust yourself again after a major life shift, this episode will remind you that healing is messy, and that you’re not alone in it!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why deciding to leave a marriage is often years in the makingHow anxiety can show up even when you’re a mental health professionalThe importance of rebuilding trust in yourself after a relationship endsWays to cope with the shame and self-doubt that follow divorceSimple, powerful self-care habits to help you survive and thrive during hard timesGET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceTAKE MY FREE QUIZ AND FIND OUT WHAT'S CAUSING YOU TO STAY STUCK: https://www.ahealthypush.com/blocking-quizCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/navigating-divorce-anxiety-and-self-trust-a-raw-conversation-with-stacey-sherrell

In this powerful and emotional episode, I sit down with Heather, a former Panic to Peace student, to talk about her journey with panic disorder, agoraphobia, and anxiety spans more than 30 years. From her first panic attack at age 14 to becoming housebound and relying on others for even the most basic daily tasks, Heather has lived through the depths of fear and isolation that many people with anxiety know all too well. But today, her story is one of strength, freedom, and self-trust.Heather opens up about the life-changing moment when she realized she needed more than just coping tools—she needed to build true safety within herself. Through Panic to Peace and intentional daily action, Heather began facing the discomfort she had been avoiding for years. She reveals how she worked through anticipatory anxiety, stopped avoiding being alone, and eventually conquered some of her biggest fears, including driving alone on the freeway.Now completing a master’s program to become a therapist, Heather’s story is not only inspiring—it’s proof that deep healing and transformation are absolutely possible. If you’ve ever doubted your ability to change, this episode will show you just how strong and capable you really are!In This Episode, Heather Shares:How her anxiety first showed up in high school and shaped her early adult lifeWhy traditional therapy and medication didn’t fully address the root of her strugglesWhat finally helped her shift from managing anxiety to building a life of peace and freedomThe moment she realized she could feel anxious and still take meaningful actionHow she overcame her fear of driving alone and started her internship as a future therapistWhy building safety within yourself is the most powerful thing you can doGET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceSIGN UP FOR MY FREE 60 MINUTE MASTERCLASS - 5 SHIFTS YOU NEED MAKE TO OVERCOME ANXIETY, PANIC DISORDER, & AGORAPHOBIA: https://ahealthypush.myflodesk.com/g2glrk93qlCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/anxiety-success-stories-two-decades-of-panic-one-big-breakthrough-heather-s-story

In this heartfelt and powerful Q&A episode, I’m joined by Annie—one of my former students and a regular voice on the podcast—to dive into the hardest questions that come up during anxiety recovery. If you've ever wondered, What if I never get better? or felt stuck despite doing all the “right” things, this episode is for you. We talk about the fears, doubts, setbacks, and emotional heaviness that can show up in recovery—and most importantly, what it actually looks like to move through them.We Answer These 10 Common Questions in This Episode:What if I never get better? What if I never feel normal again?What if I’m doing all the right things but still not seeing progress?Is it normal to feel like I’m getting worse before I get better?Is there a point where I should just accept that this is my life now?How do I stop comparing my journey to others who seem further along?How long does recovery actually take?What were the signs that you were truly getting better?Did you ever feel like giving up on recovery? If so, what kept you going?What helped you believe that recovery was possible when you didn’t feel it?Is full recovery really possible or will I always have some anxiety?Whether you’re in the thick of anxiety, panic disorder, or agoraphobia, this episode will offer reassurance, validation, and some gentle encouragement to keep going. You are not alone, and recovery is possible—even if you don’t fully believe it yet.GET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceSIGN UP FOR MY FREE 60 MINUTE MASTERCLASS - 5 SHIFTS YOU NEED MAKE TO OVERCOME ANXIETY, PANIC DISORDER, & AGORAPHOBIA: https://ahealthypush.myflodesk.com/g2glrk93qlCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/what-if-i-never-get-better-answering-the-hardest-questions-about-anxiety-recovery

In this moving and relatable episode, I sit down with Lauren, a recent graduate of my Panic to Peace program, as she shares her powerful journey through anxiety, panic disorder, and agoraphobia. Lauren opens up about the life events that triggered her struggle—loss, burnout, and avoidance—and how it all came to a head during one hot summer day in Brooklyn.We talk about:The early signs of anxiety Lauren experienced as a childThe moment her panic and avoidance really took holdThe terrifying experience that led her to avoid heat, travel, and even grocery shoppingHer resistance to medication, perfectionist tendencies, and the shame she carriedHow exposure work, therapy, community, and self-compassion helped her reclaim her lifeLauren’s story is not just inspiring—it’s packed with insights, validation, and reminders that you're not alone. She shares what helped her shift from fear and avoidance to confidence and freedom, and what it really took to heal (hint: it wasn’t just pushing through or trying harder!).Whether you’re in the thick of anxiety or well into your recovery, this episode is a must-listen!GET ON THE PANIC TO PEACE WAITING LIST HERE: https://www.ahealthypush.com/live-panic-to-peaceSIGN UP FOR MY FREE 60 MINUTE MASTERCLASS - 5 SHIFTS YOU NEED MAKE TO OVERCOME ANXIETY, PANIC DISORDER, & AGORAPHOBIA: https://ahealthypush.myflodesk.com/g2glrk93qlCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: https://www.ahealthypush.com/post/anxiety-success-stories-from-hiding-to-healing-how-lauren-faced-anxiety-after-years-of-avoidance

In this episode, I’m joined by Nicole Mendizabal to talk about something so many of us struggle with—creating schedules that actually work for us instead of pushing us toward burnout. If you have ADHD, anxiety, or just tend to overload your days, this conversation is a must-listen.We talk about:How to check in with yourself and assess your daily capacityBuilding schedules that match your natural energy patternsWhy people with ADHD are more prone to burnoutSelf-compassion and realistic to-do listsThe magic of “Bare Minimum Mondays”What happens when we ignore our energy and push too hardHow I personally hit burnout—and what I’ve changed to avoid it happening againWHAT'S BLOCKING YOUR ANXIETY RECOVERY? TAKE MY FREE QUIZ AND FIND OUT: https://www.ahealthypush.com/blocking-quizSIGN UP FOR MY FREE 60 MINUTE MASTERCLASS - 5 SHIFTS YOU NEED MAKE TO OVERCOME ANXIETY, PANIC DISORDER, & AGORAPHOBIA: https://ahealthypush.myflodesk.com/g2glrk93qlCHECK OUT MY MASTERCLASSES HERE AND START EXPERIENCING LOTS MORE PEACE, JOY, & FREEDOM: https://www.ahealthypush.com/anxiety-classesA HEALTHY PUSH INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/ahealthypush/GET THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTES: