Using NLP for Anxiety

Did any of you stay up late to watch the Jack Draper v Jannik Sinner semi-final match at the US Open this week? I did, and felt for the poor guy as he threw up three times on court. He said afterwards 'I'm definitely someone who is quite an anxious human being'.  I hope he gets to read this blog! 

Do you ever suffer from anxiety? There are many types of anxiety - social anxiety, performance anxiety and even general anxiety which makes you anxious about everything. NLP techniques are great for helping with anxiety.  In fact, we can use NLP for mindset change.  Here is a technique to experiment with.  It is called the ABC technique.

A - Stands for alarm or trigger point. First of all notice when something changes inside of you. It maybe your heart rate has gone up or you are feeling pains in your stomach, or even nauseous like Jack.  Whatever it is, pay attention as it's a tip-off that you are starting to feel anxiety in your body. 

B - Stands for your belief about the observation you just made. These beliefs are often sub conscious and you may not be aware of them in the beginning. The more you pay attention the more you will be able to identify them. For example, the belief might be 'I can't do it' or 'I'm not good enough'. Avoid catastrophising as anxiety is exacerbated by envisioning the worst scenario.  

C -- Stands for coping. Ask yourself 'Am I mind-reading about the situation?' and 'do I have any evidence for my anxiety?'.  What other strategies work for you?  Maybe taking a deep breath and telling yourself that all is well or changing your thoughts to a time that was calmer and more successful for you.  Go with what works for you.  

NLP is all about positive mindset techniques that help you to change your state in an instant. Our next Neuro-Linguistic Programming Certification for Practitioners begins on the 15th September so still time to join us.  Find out more here:

https://www.teamnlp.co.uk/nlp-practitioner-course

Have a great week.

Lindsey and the team at Team NLP.