The Antelope in the Condo

If you put an antelope in a downtown condo and it died from stress, would you be surprised? Probably not. You know that antelopes aren’t built for high-rises and contemporary life.

As it turns out, neither are you.

For 90 percent of human history, people lived in small groups, surrounded by nature, focused on immediate survival like dodging predators. Back then, anxiety was a helpful mechanism that ensured your ancestors survived long enough to pass on their genes. The humans who jumped at every sound escaped that one time that it really was a tiger - and you’re their descendant. Meanwhile, the humans that assumed that the noise was just a squirrel eventually became lunch. 

Evolution is a slow process but the modern world moves at striking speed. Your biology hasn't caught up to the constant stimulation and abstract demands of the 21st century. It’s no wonder that anxiety is rampant in Western society - ranging from persistent nervousness to debilitating panic - even though, instead of a hungry tiger, you’re more likely facing a demanding boss or an unexpected letter from the Canada Revenue Agency. 

Is this anxiety?

Anxiety isn't just "worrying." It’s a full-system response that presents mentally, physically, and behaviourally. You might recognize it as:

• Mentally: Constant rumination, obsessive "what-if" loops, and a nagging sense of impending doom.

• Physically: Shortness of breath, a racing heart, and muscle tension.

• Behaviourally: Procrastination, avoiding social situations, and needing constant reassurance.

Alright, it’s anxiety - now what?

In a friendly and judgment-free space, we’ll map out your triggers to understand exactly what’s happening and why. Then, we’ll take a two-pronged approach:

• Top-Down (Cognitive): We’ll identify and shift the negative thought patterns that underpin your distress. This is about changing how your brain interprets the world. 

• Bottom-Up (Physiological): We’ll use research-backed tools to ground your nervous system in the present moment. This is about teaching your body that not every stress cue means that you’re being chased by a predator. Hey, maybe you just messed up an Excel spreadsheet!

Everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique. Together, we’ll craft a personalized anti-anxiety toolkit that works for you. Fill out the form below, email me at sue@suebedfordpsychotherapy.com or click here to book a session.