Anxiety can be constant and ever present in our lives, it can distort our thoughts, perceptions of reality, and cause unnecessary distress. In this article, we will explore a unique perspective that conceptualises anxiety as a third person that tells our brain’s things that are simply not true. By understanding this metaphor, we can gain insights into the deceptive nature of anxiety and learn strategies to silence that voice, regaining control over our thoughts and emotions.

1. The Intrusive, and dishonest Narrator:
   Anxiety often manifests as an intrusive, and dishonest narrator, filling our minds with negative thoughts and absurd beliefs. It creates a narrative that exaggerates risks, magnifies uncertainties, and amplifies worst-case scenarios. Recognising this intrusive and dishonest voice as a separate entity can help us distance ourselves from its influence.
2. Challenging Distorted Messages:
   One of the keys to combating anxiety is questioning and challenging the distorted messages it presents. Analyse each thought and belief that arise during anxious moments, and critically evaluate their validity. Ask yourself if there is substantial evidence supporting these thoughts or if anxiety is merely distorting reality. Further, ask yourself what the objective of these thoughts are? Are they helpful? Are they kind?
3. Unmasking Anxiety’s Tactics:
   Anxiety often employs dishonest tactics to maintain its grip on our minds. It may use catastrophising, overgeneralisation, or black-and-white thinking to convince us that our fears are justified. By identifying and analysing these tactics, we can begin to unravel anxiety’s web of deceit and regain control over our thought process.
4. Practicing Cognitive Reframing:
   Cognitive reframing is a powerful technique that helps challenge and restructure negative thought patterns. Replace anxious thoughts with more realistic, balanced, and positive alternatives. Consider alternative perspectives and evidence that contradict anxiety’s narrative. Over time, this practice can weaken anxiety’s influence and cultivate a more positive mindset.
5. Mindfulness and Observing Thoughts:
   Mindfulness is a valuable tool for removing ourselves from anxiety’s grip. By cultivating present-moment awareness and non-judgmental observation of our thoughts, we can detach ourselves from the anxious narratives. Mindfulness allows us to recognise anxiety as temporary mental events rather than truths, empowering us to let go of their influence.
6. Seeking Support and Professional Help:
   It can be beneficial to seek support from trusted individuals or mental health professionals when dealing with anxiety. Sharing your experiences with understanding friends, family, or therapists can provide a fresh perspective and support in challenging anxiety’s deceptive messages. Professional guidance can offer tailored strategies to address and manage anxiety effectively. The message here is, you are not alone, please reach out if you need support.
7. Cultivating Self-Compassion:
   Self-compassion is crucial in combatting anxiety’s deception. Be kind and patient with yourself as you navigate through anxious thoughts. Acknowledge that anxiety is a natural response; however, remind yourself that it does not define your reality or dictate your worth. Treat yourself with the same love, kindness and compassion that you would offer to a friend facing similar struggles.

Viewing anxiety as a third person telling your brain things that are not true offers a valuable perspective to understand its dishonest nature. By recognising anxiety’s intrusive presence, we can challenge distorted thoughts, unmask its tactics, practice cognitive reframing, cultivate mindfulness, seek support, and embrace self-compassion, we can reclaim control over our thoughts and regain peace of mind. You have the power to challenge anxiety’s narrative and cultivate a more accurate and empowering perspective on life.