Why Anxiety Makes the Past Feel Like It’s Happening Now
Why does the past feel like it’s still happening—especially when you’re anxious?
In this episode, we’re talking about that all-too-familiar feeling of being emotionally pulled back into a past situation, even when you know you're safe. Whether it’s a memory, a mistake, or something that still carries emotional weight—anxiety can make it feel like you’re right back there.We’ll explore:
✔️ Why your brain replays past moments like they’re happening now
✔️ How emotional memory and survival instincts keep you stuck
✔️ The role of cognitive distortions (like overgeneralising and emotional reasoning)
✔️ Grounding tools to bring yourself back to the present
✔️ How to stop fearing that the past will repeat itself
✔️ Therapist-backed ways to gently reframe what anxiety is telling youIf you’ve ever spiralled over an old fear, felt triggered by a familiar feeling, or been frustrated with your brain for rehashing the past—this episode is for you.
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Disclaimer - This channel/ podcast exist for psychoeducation & marketing purposes. This is not a replacement for professional mental health support or therapy. While I am a therapist, I am not your therapist and this content does not substitute a professional, therapeutic relationship. Please reach out to a mental health professional for a higher level of care.
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Jess | Therapy with Jess
Anxiously Capable | Real Talk on Anxiety, OCD and Mental Health for the Anxious Girlies 💕
Welcome to Anxiously Capable, the mental health podcast for women who are tired of feeling overwhelmed—and ready to feel more grounded, understood, and capable.
I’m Jess Eden (@therapywithjesseden), a UK-based therapist specializing in anxiety, OCD, and intrusive thoughts. Each Monday, we dive into honest conversations around mental health, healing, and how to cope when life feels like too much.
Expect therapy-based tools, real talk, personal stories, and calming support to help you:
💕Trust yourself again
💕 Stop spiraling
💕 Navigate your 20s and 30s with anxiety and self-compassion
- No. of episodes: 22
- Latest episode: 2025-05-13
- Health & Fitness Mental Health
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