Do you constantly criticize yourself for feeling anxious? You're not alone — but it's not helping.

In this episode, Jessica explains why self-criticism actually fuels anxiety, how to recognize your inner critic, and what to do instead to start feeling calmer and kinder toward yourself.

Episode Summary

People with anxiety are often their own harshest critics. In this compassionate follow-up to Episode 1, Jessica explores how self-criticism and anxiety create a painful feedback loop — one that keeps you feeling stuck, tense, and unsafe.

Through relatable stories and practical insight, she shows why "beating yourself up" never works, and how shifting to understanding and compassion can immediately begin to calm your anxiety and open the door to healing.

In This Episode, You'll Learn

Why anxiety makes you blame yourself — and how that intensifies criticism

How self-criticism tricks your brain into thinking it's keeping you safe

What happens in your body when you judge yourself harshly

Simple ways to interrupt the anxiety/self-criticism cycle

A gentle exercise to replace judgment with understanding and compassion

Key Quotes

"If beating yourself up actually worked, you'd be 'perfect' by now — but you're not, and I'm not. Because criticism doesn't actually help."

"Criticism ramps us up or shuts us down — it never helps us change."

"Treat yourself the way you'd treat anyone else who had anxiety — with kindness and understanding."

Main Takeaway

You can't heal anxiety when you're beating yourself up.

Real change begins when you stop beating yourself up, stop blaming yourself for being anxious, and start meeting yourself with kindness, compassion, and understanding.

Who This Episode Is For

This episode is for anyone who:

Constantly blames themselves for feeling anxious

Feels trapped in self-criticism and perfectionism and wants a way out

Wants to feel calmer and kinder toward themselves

Connect with Jessica

Instagram: @jessica_richards_counseling

Get My Free Guide: Three Keys to Begin Quieting Anxiety Now

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Enjoyed the Episode?

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*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.