It's Not You, It's Anxiety!
It's Not You, It's Anxiety is a podcast for people who are anxious, but haven't found relief from the usual anxiety help, and feel like there must be something wrong with THEM.
Overwhelmed, stuck in their heads, tired of overthinking, and exhausted, they're ready for a kinder and more straightforward way to understand and work with anxiety — especially in a world that feels anything but calm.
Hosted by counselor and coach Jessica Richards, this show blends psychology, compassion, and Jessica's insight as a counselor and person who has struggled with anxiety herself, to help you make sense of your anxiety, ease constant worry and judgement, and rebuild trust in yourself.
Your anxiety actually makes sense and there is a way to work with it.
You're not the problem — you just need support that meets you where you're at.
Come learn how to understand and work with your anxiety...with kindness, compassion, and no judgement (even in these wild times).
It's Not You, It's Anxiety!
Why Anxiety Isn't Your Fault
Anxiety is your fault and you should have it figured out by now, right?
Nope.
Anxiety isn't your fault. You didn't cause it — in fact, you're actually set up for it.
Jessica breaks down three core reasons anxiety isn't your fault and helps you finally understand why what your anxiety makes sense.
Episode Summary
In this clear and compassionate episode, Jessica explains why anxiety isn't a personal failure — it's part of being human living in this modern world.
You'll learn the three major factors that "set you up" for anxiety: Your biological wiring, The overwhelming pace of modern life, and the messages you've learned from family and society.
By the end, you'll see your anxiety in a completely new light — with more understanding, less shame. You'll have a powerful reminder that it makes sense you feel this way...and it isn't your fault.
In This Episode, You'll Learn
About the biological survival system that creates anxiety
Why modern life overwhelms a brain built for simpler times
How social and family messages quietly shape anxiety
The phrase that changes everything: "This makes sense"
How self-understanding leads to self-compassion, healing, and relief
Key Quotes
"You are totally set up for anxiety — and that's why it's not your fault."
"Your biology, this modern world, and the messages you've learned all combine to create anxiety — so how could you not feel this way?"
"Understanding why anxiety makes sense is the first step to changing it."
Main Takeaway
Anxiety isn't a defect — it's a reasonable response that you're totally set up for. Once you understand how your brain, body, and environment work together to create anxiety, you can finally release the blame and begin to get relief.
Who This Episode Is For
This episode is for anyone who:
Feels guilty or ashamed about their anxiety
Wants to understand why anxiety really happens
Is ready to replace self-blame with insight and compassion
Connect with Jessica
Instagram: @jessica_richards_counseling
Get My Free Guide: 3 Keys for Quieting Anxiety Now
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Enjoyed the Episode?
If this episode helped you see your anxiety differently, please follow the show and leave a review. Your words help others discover that their anxiety makes sense too.
*Disclaimer* This show is for information and inspiration. It is not professional mental health counseling or medical advice. If you're struggling, please reach out to a mental health or medical professional.