Coping with Anxiety & Stress

Anxiety is everywhere right now, but the real problem might be simpler and harder to face: a lot of us have lost the ability to cope with normal life stress without spiraling. We sit down with Aline Paredes, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Thrive Well Health (telemedicine mental health services), for a raw, no-nonsense talk about what she’s seeing after two decades in mental health and why “just push through it” is failing so many people in midlife.

We get clear on the difference between stress and anxiety, including the point where stress becomes emotional dysregulation, sleep problems, panic symptoms, or shutdown. From there we connect the dots to emotional eating, binge eating, ADHD-related snacking, and the way trauma and constant judgment can shape body image for years. If you’ve ever made progress on the scale but still felt “stuck” in the mirror, we talk about that too, including body dysmorphia, self-sabotage, and why self-love is not fluff, it’s a practical requirement for lasting change.

You’ll also hear specific coping tools that go beyond restriction and willpower: walking, movement, music, journaling, calling a friend, deep breathing, and simply stepping outside. We frame health like a “health bank” you build alongside your 401k so your later years are about living, not bouncing between appointments. We also cover GLP-1 weight loss medications and why some people notice increased anxiety or depression, plus why reputable care and real coaching matter.

If any of this hits close to home, share this with someone who needs it, subscribe for more honest midlife conversations, and leave a review so more people can find the support they’ve been putting off. What coping tool are you adding this week?

Icon Weight Loss: www.iconweightloss.com

ThriveWell Health: ThriveWellHealth.net

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Disclaimer:
Martha Savloff is not a medical doctor. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your health or wellness plan.