In this holiday edition of The Anxiety Society Podcast, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner dive into the stress, pressure, and blues that the festive holiday season can bring. From financial concerns to family dynamics and time management struggles, they share practical tips, reframing strategies, and personal insights to help you embrace the joy of the season without letting anxiety take the reins. Discover how boundaries, self-care, and small mindset shifts can turn holiday chaos into meaningful moments.

Key Points:

[0:00] Introduction to Holiday Stress

A look at why the holidays can be as anxiety-inducing as they are festive.

[2:18] The Power of Boundaries

Practical strategies for setting boundaries and maintaining your sanity amidst holiday obligations.

[8:45] Managing Triggers and Family Conflicts

Tools to prepare for and respond to challenging family dynamics during festive gatherings.

[16:27] Financial and Time Pressures

Tips for managing financial stress and juggling the endless holiday to-do list.

[28:31] Coping with Loneliness and Grief

How to navigate the holiday blues, grief, and isolation while staying connected.

[37:32] Self-Care and Setting Realistic Expectations

Balancing personal health, holiday preparations, and enjoying the present moment.

Quotable Moments:

[4:12] “Holidays are meant for joy, but they can only be joyful if you set boundaries that protect your peace.” – Dr. McIngvale

[19:03] “You can feel anxious and joyful simultaneously. Anxiety doesn’t have to define your holiday experience.” – Cali Werner

[36:40] “Boundaries set ahead of time are kindness to yourself and to others—they prevent the chaos before it starts.” – Dr. McIngvale

Links Mentioned:

American Psychological Association – For holiday stress statistics and mental health resources.

The Anxiety Society Podcast: anxietysocietypodcast.com

Follow on Instagram: @theanxietysocietypod

The holiday season can be overwhelming, but with boundaries, self-care, and thoughtful planning, it can also be a time of joy and connection. Share your holiday goals with us at anxietysocietypodcast.com, and tune in next time for more insights. Don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and leave a review to help us reach others who may benefit from our message!

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.

In this episode, Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner tackle the difficult topic of how we avoid anxiety through escapist behaviors and quick fixes. They discuss how ignoring or avoiding distress only strengthens anxiety and provide practical strategies for leaning into discomfort, facing it head-on, and ultimately living a life driven by values instead of fear. Tune in to hear about the dangers of relying on quick fixes like CBD gummies and other fads, and how to embrace the uncomfortable journey toward long-lasting change.

Key Points:

[0:00] - Introduction and Welcome

The hosts introduce the concept of running from anxiety and why it's critical to face discomfort head-on rather than avoiding it.

[1:21] - The Price of Avoidance

Elizabeth and Cali talk about how avoidance behaviors, like ignoring tough conversations or emotions, keep people stuck in anxiety.

[5:38] - The Appeal of Quick Fixes

A deep dive into how quick fixes, such as CBD gummies and fad diets, promise relief but ultimately reinforce anxiety and make it worse.

[16:03] - Restlessness and Overworking

How behaviors like compulsive overworking and restlessness can be ways to avoid facing anxiety, and why slowing down is crucial for healing.

[19:06] - The Power of Sitting in Discomfort

The hosts discuss how learning to sit with discomfort, rather than fleeing from it, is key to managing anxiety. They share personal stories and client examples of this transformative process.

[28:52] - Values-Based Living

What does it mean to live by your values instead of anxiety? Elizabeth and Cali share insights into how aligning your actions with your values can lead to a more fulfilling and anxiety-free life.

Quotable Moments:

[1:50] “If something makes you uncomfortable, that’s a signal you’re growing. Don’t run from it, sit with it.” - Cali Werner

[28:52] "Living by your values means doing what matters to you, not what your anxiety demands." - Dr. Elizabeth MacIngvale

[22:53] “There’s no quick fix. The hard work of confronting anxiety is the only way to truly move forward.” - Dr. Elizabeth MacIngvale

Links Mentioned:

• Anxiety Society Podcast Website: http://anxietysocietypodcast.com
• Instagram: @AnxietySocietyPod
• Book: Sacred Rhythm by Ruth Gayle Barton: https://a.co/d/543RKdj

Facing your anxiety head-on is challenging, but avoiding it only gives it more power. Begin leaning into discomfort and making small changes today by setting values-based goals that align with what truly matters to you. Share your thoughts with us on our website or Instagram, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes as we dive deeper into mental health topics.

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.

In this episode of The Anxiety Society podcast, Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner dive into the pervasive issue of people-pleasing. With personal stories and professional insight, they explore the impact of prioritizing others' needs over your own and the internal conflict it creates. They offer practical strategies for recognizing when you're caught in the people-pleasing trap and discuss how setting healthy boundaries can preserve your energy, strengthen your relationships, and protect your sense of self. Whether you’re a “yes” person or find yourself avoiding conflict at all costs, this episode reveals how to honor your needs without guilt.

Key Points:

- [0:01] - Introduction to People-Pleasing

Dr. Elizabeth and Cali introduce the topic and discuss how people-pleasing often results from anxiety and a desire to avoid conflict.

- [5:20] - The Catch-22 of Social Media

They examine the common scenario of withholding moments from social media out of fear of upsetting others and the guilt that follows.

- [12:45] - Boundaries and Self-Awareness

Insight on the need for boundaries, particularly with close family and friends, and recognizing the warning signs of overextending yourself.

- [24:15] - How to Set Boundaries Without Guilt

Cali shares practical steps for setting boundaries empathetically, emphasizing the power of open communication.

- [34:30] - Why People-Pleasing Hurts Self-Identity

The hosts explore how over-accommodating can erode your sense of self and lead to resentment and burnout.

- [42:00] - Taking Back Your Time

Dr. Elizabeth discusses time as a precious resource, advocating for mindful choices that reflect your values over social obligations.

Quotable Moments:

- [0:02:02] - "I often say I don't want feedback right now. But then I wonder, do I want to improve or just feel comfortable?" — Cali Werner

- [12:10] - "People-pleasing keeps you stuck. It's not just exhausting; it chips away at who you really are." — Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

- [42:30] - "The most valuable gift you have is your time. Spend it on what fulfills you, not just what fills others' expectations." — Cali Werner

Links Mentioned:

• Anxiety Society Podcast Website: https://AnxietySocietyPodcast.com

If people-pleasing is holding you back, it’s time to recognize how it impacts your well-being and reclaim your sense of self. Embrace this opportunity to set boundaries and make choices that reflect your true values. Visit the podcast website to submit questions or join the community on Instagram. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support the show and reach others on similar journeys.

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.

In this episode of The Anxiety Society, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and guest clinician Ryan Judd, take a deep dive into depression. They discuss the challenges of recognizing and managing depression and share practical strategies to help listeners take control of their emotions. With insights on behavioral activation, the importance of community, and how depression intertwines with anxiety, this episode offers clear steps to get back on track when life feels overwhelming.

Key Points:

[0:00] - Welcome and Episode Overview

Elizabeth and Cali introduce today’s guest, Ryan Judd, a clinician at the OCD Institute, Texas, and outline their focus on depression.

[1:20] - Recognizing Depression in Everyday Life

Ryan shares his clinical insights on how depression manifests in various ways, from changes in sleep to loss of interest in activities.

[3:26] - The Power of Behavioral Activation

Ryan and Elizabeth discuss how altering behavior can shift feelings and why action, not rest, is the antidote to depression.

[6:08] - Clinical vs. Everyday Depression

The hosts clarify the difference between feeling depressed occasionally and clinical depression, emphasizing the importance of recognizing prolonged symptoms.

[18:00] - Avoidance and Social Pressure

Elizabeth reflects on her own experience with avoidance and social anxiety, highlighting how small changes in routine can make a big difference.

[31:00] - Finding and Building Community

The conversation touches on how isolation exacerbates depression and why building community is critical for healing.

Quotable Moments:

[3:47] "We don’t have a lot of control over our feelings, but we can control our actions—and that changes everything." - Ryan Judd

[19:17] "Sometimes, when you feel least able to do something, that’s when it’s most important to go do it." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

[43:40] "Not many good things happen in your head—get out of your head and into your life." - Ryan Judd

Links Mentioned:

• Anxiety Society Podcast Website: http://anxietysocietypodcast.com
• Book "Make Your Bed" :https://a.co/d/2GCLs27

In this episode, we learned that taking small, consistent steps can significantly change how we feel over time. Depression doesn’t have to control your life, and the path to healing starts with small actions and reconnecting with your community. Join us next time, and don’t forget to leave us a voice message on our website with your questions and thoughts!

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.

In this episode of The Anxiety Society Podcast, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner dive into a Q&A format, tackling a wide range of listener-submitted questions. From understanding the difference between anxiety and OCD to overcoming performance anxiety, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice. They also explore how avoidance can fuel anxiety, discuss the role of therapy, and offer tips on how to maintain a healthy mindset amidst life’s challenges. Whether you’re curious about managing anxiety in everyday life or want to support others, this episode offers actionable steps to reclaim control over anxiety.

Key Points:

- [0:00] Welcome & Introduction

Dr. McIngvale and Cali introduce the Q&A format, highlighting the variety of listener questions.

- [3:24] Anxious Moments

Cali shares a personal story about feeling torn between fun and family obligations, reflecting the common struggle of anxiety and guilt.

- [6:15] Difference Between Anxiety and OCD

The hosts clarify key differences between anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), noting that OCD involves specific intrusive thoughts and rituals aimed at reducing distress.

- [14:10] How to Identify Good vs. Bad Therapy

The hosts discuss the importance of therapy that moves you forward, explaining the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and why "talk therapy" might not be helpful for anxiety.

- [30:28] Tackling Performance Anxiety in Sports

A listener question about performance anxiety leads to a discussion on how to handle nerves and approach performance in a healthy way, using exposure and cognitive reframing.

- [33:11] When Anxiety Becomes Abnormal

How to differentiate between normal anxiety and when it becomes a disorder, impacting your daily life and relationships.

Quotable Moments:

- [0:00] "If you're ready to step outside of your comfort zone and explore the unfiltered truth that will help you change your entire relationship with anxiety, you’re in the right place." – Dr. McIngvale

- [15:25] "If you feel like you are really struggling with mental health, but you don't know what's going on, start with a full psychological assessment." – Cali

- [32:50] "When you avoid anxiety, you're teaching yourself that you can't tolerate it, which just feeds it even more." – Dr. McIngvale

Links Mentioned:

- Website: http://AnxietySocietyPodcast.com

- Instagram: https://instagram.com/theanxietysocietypod

Thank you for tuning in to this Q&A episode! If you have more questions or need advice on dealing with anxiety, don’t hesitate to submit your questions on our website or through social media. Remember to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode, and if you found this helpful, please leave us a review!

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.

In this episode of The Anxiety Society, hosts Dr. Elizabeth Mcingvale and Cali Werner welcome special guest Rogelio Gonzalez, M.A.,Pre-Doctoral Fellow, to dive into the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome. Sharing personal experiences and professional insights, they unpack why so many of us feel like frauds, even when we're more than qualified. Together, they explore strategies for overcoming these self-doubts through mindset shifts, setting realistic goals, and embracing growth. This conversation is raw, real, and packed with practical advice for anyone battling their inner imposter.

Key Points:

[0:06] - Introduction to The Anxiety Society Podcast

Dr. Elizabeth Mcingvale and Cali Werner introduce the podcast's purpose: discussing anxiety in an unfiltered way, pushing boundaries to help listeners better understand and manage it.

[1:10] - Meet the Guest: Rogelio Gonzalez

The hosts introduce Ro, a clinician passionate about helping people manage their mental health, who shares his unique journey into the field of psychology.

[2:17] - Imposter Syndrome Defined

The team defines imposter syndrome and why it resonates with so many, even among highly qualified professionals. They explore how it affects both personal and professional lives.

[8:00] - Personal Experiences with Imposter Syndrome

The hosts and Rogelio share moments where they’ve felt like imposters, from clinical work to social circles. Liz reflects on how imposter syndrome can pop up even in areas where she is otherwise confident.

[24:14] - The Imposter Cycle & Breaking It

The hosts discuss the imposter syndrome cycle and how over-preparing, self-doubt, and feeling like a fraud perpetuate these feelings. They share practical tips on setting process-based goals instead of outcome-based ones.

[35:01] - Tackling Imposter Syndrome in the Workplace

Ro and Cali share how workplace environments can either fuel or help alleviate imposter syndrome, and how peer support plays a crucial role in overcoming these feelings.

[42:00] - Steps to Conquer Imposter Syndrome

The episode concludes with actionable steps to overcome imposter syndrome, including setting realistic goals, cognitive restructuring, celebrating small wins, and practicing self-compassion.

Quotable Moments:

[2:20] “I think the biggest question people have is, what do I do about it? I feel it, now what?” — Cali Werner

[8:16] “I remember thinking, I can’t be here. I must have cut a corner somewhere.” — Rogelio Gonzalez

[35:12] “We can’t treat everyone successfully every time... but that doesn’t make us bad clinicians.” — Dr. Elizabeth Mcingvale

Links Mentioned:

• The Anxiety Society Podcast Website: http://www.anxietysocietypodcast.com
• Instagram: @anxietysocietypod: http://instagram.com/anxietysocietypod

Imposter syndrome is something that so many of us battle, but you don’t have to fight it alone. Listen to this episode for practical strategies and advice to start overcoming those feelings of inadequacy today. Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review to help others find this valuable content.

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.

Mom guilt—we all face it and together we can change it. In this episode of The Anxiety Society, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner discuss this universal struggle with special guest Ericka Graham. Together, they explore how conflicting priorities and societal expectations fuel guilt, while offering practical tips to manage it. From setting healthy boundaries to reframing guilt as a tool for growth, this episode provides a compassionate and candid look at what it really means to navigate motherhood and anxiety. Whether you're a new mom or seasoned parent, you'll find relatable stories and advice to help lighten the emotional load.

Key Points:

- [0:00] - Welcome to The Anxiety Society

Dr. Elizabeth and Cali discuss the podcast's mission to address anxiety in everyday life and introduce special guest Ericka Graham.

- [2:00] - Anxious Moments

Each week our hosts share their recent anxiety-inducing moments brought on by everyday challenges and events.

- [3:52] - Defining Mom Guilt

Ericka discusses how conflicting core values often drive mom guilt, using personal examples to illustrate the complexity of these feelings.

- [10:44] - Social Comparisons and Guilt

Liz and Cali talk about how social media and comparing oneself to other moms adds to the pressure, while Erica shares how she found balance by setting realistic expectations.

- [22:33] - Managing Anxious Mom Moments

Ericka recalls a moment when she was speaking at an event and watched her baby struggle on a baby monitor, reflecting on the anxiety and guilt this caused.

- [32:40] - Strategies to Cope with Guilt

Practical advice on self-compassion, boundary setting, and the importance of support systems in overcoming guilt.

Quotable Moments:

- [0:54] "Our goal is to be real and vulnerable, but also to connect with so many others." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

- [10:07] "Mom guilt is when two or more core values are in conflict with each other." - Ericka Graham

- [38:11] "Anxiety is a reaction to guilt, but underneath it, there's often something we can work through." - Ericka Graham

Links Mentioned:

• Ericka’s podcast: https://curiouslywitherickagraham.simplecast.com/
• National Charity League (NCL): https://www.nationalcharityleague.org/
• Anxiety Society Podcast Website: https://AnxietySocietyPodcast.com
• Follow on Instagram: @AnxietySocietyPod https://www.instagram.com/AnxietySocietyPod

Motherhood and guilt often go hand in hand, but this episode reminds us that guilt can be a tool for growth. Whether you’re struggling with balancing work and home life, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the expectations placed on moms today, this episode offers actionable insights and heartfelt stories to help you navigate the journey. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow mom who might need some encouragement!

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.

In this episode, Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner dive into the topic of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), breaking down common misconceptions and explaining the difference between OCD and perfectionism. They explore the nature of obsessions and compulsions, and discuss effective treatment strategies, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Using real-life examples the hosts illustrate how OCD can manifest, and how treatment offers a path to freedom. Tune in to learn how you can better understand and manage OCD.

Key Points:

[0:00] Welcome to the Anxiety Society Podcast

Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner introduce the podcast and its mission to challenge common ideas about anxiety and mental health.

[1:20] What is OCD?

The hosts clarify common misunderstandings about OCD, explaining what obsessive-compulsive disorder really entails and the difference between OCD and perfectionism.

[9:00] OCD is Not an Adjective

A deep dive into why using "OCD" as an adjective is incorrect, highlighting the difference between personality characteristics and a debilitating disorder.

[17:16] Obsessions vs. Compulsions

An explanation of the intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and the repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that characterize OCD, along with examples of how they manifest.

[21:53] Subtypes of OCD

The hosts discuss various subtypes of OCD, including contamination fears, harm OCD, scrupulosity, and taboo subjects like sexual intrusive thoughts.

[31:42] Treatment for OCD: ERP

A breakdown of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the most effective treatment for OCD, and how it helps patients regain control.

[43:04] Freedom from OCD

Personal experiences and encouragement on how ERP can lead to freedom, highlighting the importance of facing fears fully rather than "white-knuckling" through them.

Quotable Moments:

[1:20] "We will spend time today talking about what you might think OCD is—and why it may not actually be that." – Cali Werner

[0:59] "OCD is not functional. It makes you less productive, and it causes distress." – Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

[46:46] "We can handle hard things. We can handle distress." – Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

Links Mentioned

• Anxiety Society Podcast Website: https://AnxietySocietyPodcast.com
• Follow on Instagram: @AnxietySocietyPod https://www.instagram.com/AnxietySocietyPod

Thank you for tuning in to today’s episode on OCD! We hope you now have a clearer understanding of what OCD is, how it differs from perfectionism, and how ERP can help you find freedom. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review.

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.