Managing the Storms of Stress and Anxiety through Intentional Engagement
Handling the Storms of Stress and Anxiety Through Intentional Engagement
Managing the storms of stress and anxiety is a topic I discuss constantly with clients. As a clinical psychologist, I work to simplify the complexities of mental health for everyday practice. One simple and powerful strategy for managing anxiety is regular intentional engagement in pleasant, personally engaging, and meaningful activities.
Why This Matters
It may seem obvious BUT the difference between knowing and doing is a universal human struggle.
During periods when stress, distress, or/or heightened anxiety is prominent, we can intentionally engage in activity that occupies the mental space that would otherwise be prominently buzzing with streams of distressing thoughts.
It’s not about replacing sadness with happiness; it’s about practicing having a little bit of conscious control around balancing the content of our conscious attention. Balancing negative emotions with positive ones.
The Power of Repetition
Consistent practice (yes, do it repeatedly!) builds confidence: Regular intentional engagement builds our faith in the power of intentional engagement and builds our faith in our ability to use this as a resource. The more we do it, the more it becomes part of who we are and how we function.
Faith in our coping abilities reduces anxiety
Faith in our ability to cope shifts us toward a perceived sense of safety, sending messages of safety to regulate the autonomic nervous system, which has a balancing effect on our body and mind.
It is not about ignoring anxiety. Instead, it’s about balancing our naturally problem-focused bias by intentionally prioritising pleasant and personally relevant activities.
This applies equally to work stress and self-care as much as it does to distress related to complex psychological conditions.
Practical Examples of Managing the Storms of Stress and Anxiety through Intentional Engagement
What counts as “intentional engagement”? It will look different for everyone, but here are some helpful starting points:
- Reconnecting with hobbies or interests
- Scheduling a walk in nature or beach visit
- Practicing mindfulness or meditation
- Catching up with friends or family
- Volunteering for a cause that matters to you
- Creative expression through music, art, or writing
Pro tip: The activity itself matters less than the meaning it holds for you.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Thinking about this and talking about it keeps it fresh in our minds.
Let’s open the conversation:
What intentional activities help you or your clients manage stress and anxiety?
Comment on Facebook or LinkedIn or get in touch to share your thoughts.
Learn More About Our Services
Explore more strategies and mental health support through our other pages:
- Adult ADHD Support Services
- Therapy for Mood and Anxiety Disorders
- Schema Therapy and Mindfulness Approaches
You can also explore resources from trusted organisations such as Beyond Blue or the Australian Psychological Society (APS).
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Book a consultation today to explore how we can support you or your clients in managing anxiety through evidence-based psychological strategies.
