Talking to Your Therapist About Anxiety: What to Talk About and How to Start

Anxiety can be overwhelming and affect many parts of your life, making it hard to explain how you feel. If you're thinking about getting professional help, you've already made a huge step.

Here at Talked, we understand how difficult this can be, which is why we’ve created a space where you can explore these conversations at your own pace, with professionals who truly get it.

Let's dive into what and how you can discuss your anxiety with your therapist.

What to Talk About in Therapy for Anxiety

When it comes to anxiety, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s helpful to start by sharing whatever’s on your mind. This might be the thoughts that keep you up at night, the situations that trigger your anxiety, or the physical symptoms you’re experiencing.

Think about recent moments when your anxiety spiked. What was happening at the time? How did you feel? These details help your therapist understand your experience and tailor their approach to your needs.

Advice and Tips for Talking About Anxiety

It’s okay if you’re not sure where to begin. Your therapist is there to guide the conversation, but here are some tips to help:

• Be Honest About Your Feelings

Even if it’s hard to put into words, try to describe what you’re feeling. You don’t have to have it all figured out—just share what’s been going on. The more open and honest you are, the better the therapist can help you. It's like giving a mechanic all the weird noises your car is making – the more info they have, the better they can fix the problem.

• Discuss Your Triggers

Are there certain situations, places, or people that heighten your anxiety? Bringing these up can help your therapist understand what might be driving your anxiety. Remember, therapy is a team sport. You and your therapist will work together to develop a game plan that fits your unique needs and goals. Your input is crucial in shaping your treatment, so don't be shy about sharing your thoughts and preferences. By opening up about your symptoms, triggers, and goals, you're giving your therapist the tools they need to help you build a life that’s not run by your anxiety. It might feel vulnerable, but trust me, it's worth it!

• Talk About Physical Symptoms

Anxiety isn’t just in your head—it often comes with physical symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, or stomach issues. When it comes to describing your anxiety, don't hold back on the details. Your therapist isn't just interested in the highlight reel—they want the behind-the-scenes footage too. Don't forget to share how anxiety is affecting your daily life. Maybe you've been avoiding social gatherings, or your work performance is suffering. Perhaps you can't enjoy your favorite activities anymore. These details help your therapist understand the full impact of your anxiety.

Questions Your Therapist Might Ask

Your therapist will likely ask questions to get a better sense of your anxiety. These might include:

• “When did you first notice your anxiety?”

• “What situations or thoughts tend to make your anxiety worse?”

• “How does anxiety impact your daily life?”

• “Have you tried any coping strategies before?”

These questions aren’t meant to put you on the spot—they’re just a way to explore your experience and find the best way forward.

Questions You Should Ask Your Therapist

Remember, therapy is a two-way conversation. Don’t be afraid to ask your therapist questions too. Here are a few to consider:

• “What type of therapy do you recommend for my anxiety?”

• “How long does it usually take to see progress?”

• “Are there techniques I can practice between sessions?”

• “What should I do if my anxiety feels overwhelming outside of sessions?”

Asking questions helps you feel more informed and involved in your treatment.

Starting Therapy with Bad Anxiety: What Are Your Options?

If your anxiety is particularly intense, the idea of meeting a therapist in person might feel like too much. That’s okay—there are other options.

• Telehealth Sessions

If face-to-face interaction feels daunting, consider telehealth. Video sessions allow you to connect with your therapist from the comfort of your home, which can make it easier to open up.

Studies have shown that Telehealth is just as beneficial as in-person sessions and is preferred in many cases as it removes barriers. You can read more about the benefits of online therapy in our guide.

If you feel that telehealth therapy is for you, feel free to book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our therapists.

• Text-Based Therapy

If even video feels too overwhelming, some therapists offer text-based sessions. This can be a gentler way to start, letting you communicate at your own pace without the pressure of speaking out loud.

The key is to choose the format that makes you feel most comfortable. Therapy is a process, and it’s important to take it one step at a time. At Talked, we offer various therapy formats, so you can find what works best for you.

Conclusion

Talking about your anxiety can be tough, but it’s also a courageous step toward feeling better. Whether it’s your first session or you’ve been in therapy for a while, remember that your therapist is there to support you, not judge you. Be patient with yourself, and take things at your own pace.

You’re taking an important step by reaching out. Just by reading this, you’re already on your way to feeling better. If you're ready to take the next step, explore the therapy options available at Talked and start your journey towards better mental health today.

Resources

https://www.talked.com.au/mental-health/anxiety

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety

https://www.anxietyaustralia.com.au/

https://au.reachout.com/mental-health-issues/anxiety/how-to-get-help-for-anxiety

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/anxiety-disorders