It's easy to view anxiety as the enemy. Whether it manifests as a knot in the stomach or a tightness in the chest, it's natural to desire to erase those emotions. However, Wendy Suzuki ( American neuroscientist ) suggests it might not be the best course of action.  "Anxiety evolved to help protect us," Suzuki provides methods for transforming that depressing emotion into something constructive. She claims that anxiety tries to inform us about the things in our lives that we value and what we appreciate. Suzuki says, "Let's approach it and start to really think about new ways to approach it." She makes the point that developing strategies to bring yourself to an emotionally beneficial condition falls within the category of emotional regulation under processing anxiety. Frequently, that entails rescuing oneself from the profound state of anxiety that might result from a variety of circumstances.

We need to recalibrate our level of anxiety to get it back to that level where it is super-protective for us ~

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1. It May Foster More Empathy  ~
Anxious people might have greater empathy for other people, especially for individuals who suffer from social anxiety disorder. This might be the result of their extreme awareness of their surroundings, other people's actions, and their potential emotions. In general, anxious persons could be more perceptive to the emotions and experiences of others. Since empathy makes one more likely to take other people's opinions into consideration when making decisions, being more sensitive to other people might aid in the development of healthier connections with loved ones. Empathy has the potential to enhance a person's curiosity and willingness to comprehend the viewpoint of another person. 

2. It Has the Potential to Boost Output ~
Anxiety often triggers the "fight or flight" response, which can actually be beneficial by providing a surge of energy that helps people stay productive, make lists, and complete tasks. This physiological reaction, sometimes fueled by adrenaline, can motivate individuals to take risks, think creatively, or engage in healthy physical activities. Research shows that exercise, including yoga, can reduce anxiety symptoms and improve mental health. Additionally, anxiety can be a useful tool in helping meet deadlines for assignments, work, or other important responsibilities.

3. It Can Assist You In Avoiding Issues  ~
Anxiety often stems from focusing too much on the future or dwelling on the past. This kind of "forward-thinking" can trigger stress, but it also serves a purpose by helping individuals prepare for various scenarios. Reflecting on past experiences allows a person to learn valuable lessons, which can enhance their ability to handle future challenges and unexpected situations.

How Counseling Can Be Beneficial ~

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While anxiety is often seen as a negative force in our lives, it can also serve a protective and productive role. Wendy Suzuki’s approach encourages us to view anxiety not as an enemy but as a guide, signaling what matters to us. By developing emotional regulation techniques, we can harness anxiety to foster empathy, boost productivity, and equip ourselves for future challenges. Seeking therapy, practicing mindfulness, or exploring holistic remedies can be essential steps in transforming anxiety from a paralyzing emotion into a tool for personal growth and resilience.