
Episode #80
80 | Why Positive Thinking Can Make Anxiety Worse
Why does positive thinking feel fake? Why does gratitude sometimes make anxiety worse? What if neutral is the better place to start? In this episode, Jessica Davis breaks down why positive thinking can backfire when anxiety, self-doubt, or low self-worth are already loud. If you have tried affirmations, gratitude lists, or telling yourself to “just think positive” and felt worse instead of better, this episode explains why. Jessica explains the difference between noticing what is true and forcing yourself to feel something you do not believe yet. You’ll learn why your brain argues with big positive statements, how anxiety deletes good moments before they can land, and how one simple question can help you practice honesty without pretending everything is fine. What You’ll Learn in this Episode: Why forced positivity can make anxiety worse How gratitude turns into pressure when you expect it to fix your mood Why believable thoughts work better than big affirmations How neutral thinking gives anxiety less control Why good moments can sit beside hard feelings How to use one true thing as a daily practice Got a question or feedback? Text us and share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you! RESOURCES: Get your FREE Anxiety Survival Toolkit to help you when your anxiety is overwhelming! JOIN our NEWSLETTER ! Get weekly emails about upcoming podcasts, but also how to fight against anxiety! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Threads ️ Presented by Davis-Smith Mental Health This podcast was created by Davis-Smith Mental Health , offering counseling for teens & young adults in Illinois (only). We accept BCBS PPO, Aetna PPO, and self-pay clients . Links: Anxiety Survival Toolkit: https://www.blockoutthenoisepodcast.com/anxiety-survival-toolkit/ Newsletter: https://blockoutthenoisepodcast.substack.com/welcome Davis-Smith Mental Health: https://www.davis-smithmentalhealth.com/ ⚠️ Disclaimer: Block Out the Noise provides personal insights and practical strategies to help manage anxiety and self-doubt. The content is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional men...

