Dr. Debbie Granick, DNP, PMHNP-BC, LCSW, MPH
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Blog

you're not really anxious about that

12/6/2017

 
Think you're anxious about that test, that meeting, that upcoming holiday party? Think again.  It's what we tell ourselves about an event, not the event itself, that's usually to blame for stress.  The good news is that when we figure this out, we can reduce anxiety in no time.  Here's how it works. 

Think of the acronym "ETC" - as in it's not the event, it's the "etcetera" of the event that causes anxiety to rise.   Event. Thoughts. Consequences

E.  The Big Event.  "I'm invited for dinner with friends."
T.  Thoughts. "I'll say the wrong thing.  People will notice I've gained weight.  I'll be dressed differently than everyone.  I'll make the event awkward."
C.  Consequences.  Stress increases.  Self-consciousness increases.  "I'll make an excuse to not show up at all."

This hypothetical young lady tells herself that going out makes her anxious. But going out isn't the problem.  It's her thoughts, the "etcetera," that make her anxious. 

Without stepping foot in the restaurant, she's made four different assumptions, all negative, about what will happen. Without exchanging a word, she's given herself reason to worry about everything from her clothes to her waistline.  She's coronated herself "Queen of the Awkwards" without so much as a conversation. 

If our heroine gets herself some good counseling, she can avoid living the self-fulfilling prophecy of feeling isolated and awkward.  Focusing on the actual, not perceived, root of our stress allows us to make changes and get results.   

Call Debbie Granick today.  Talking may help.  Medication may help.  Find what works for you.  One person. One stop.  One step to better health.

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    Who am I?

    Dr. Debbie Granick is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Therapist in Raleigh providing both counseling and medication to reduce anxiety and depression and improve mental health.  She is available to speak about wellness to groups of all sizes.

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Dr. Debbie Granick,  Doctorally-Prepared Nurse Practitioner and Licensed Clinical Social Worker
​Available for speaking, training, consultation to groups of all sizes.
​Email me: debbie@debbiegranick.com
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  • Home
    • Contact Me
  • Resources for Professionals
  • Courses and Presentations
    • +90833 Live Webinar
    • +90833 Recorded Webinars
    • 3 Steps to Improve Mental Health In Your Organization
    • Featured In
  • PMHNP Coaching/Appointments
    • Book Now
    • Individual Therapy
    • Motivational Interview Training
  • Testimonials
  • Blog