Are your thoughts fueling your menopause anxiety?

In Episode 2 of "Menopause and the Anxious Brain," host Holly Osterman and anxiety expert Catherine Pittman, Ph.D, explore how our thoughts and imagination can ignite our fears – and how we can "change the channel" to find calm in the midst of the menopause storm.

As an associate professor at Saint Mary's College and the author of "Rewire Your Anxious Brain," Catherine brings her signature blend of science and compassion to this vital topic. She reveals how our brains process anxious thoughts and shares practical strategies for managing our mental chatter.

Grab a copy of Catherine's book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/2zhFgpu

Through relatable stories and examples, Catherine and Holly make complex concepts feel accessible and actionable. From the tale of Charlotte and Frank to the "can't erase, must replace" technique, this episode is packed with "aha" moments and tangible tools for reclaiming your calm.

If you've ever felt like your mind is working against you during menopause, this conversation will help you see your brain in a whole new light. You'll discover that your thoughts aren't trying to torment you – they're actually trying to keep you safe. By learning to work with your brain's natural processes, you can cultivate a more peaceful, resilient mindset.

Ready to put these strategies into practice? Join us at Empart, an online community dedicated to supporting women through the challenges and triumphs of menopause. Share your experiences, insights, and "aha" moments from the episode and connect with others who get it.

Join the conversation here: https://community.joinempart.com

Don't miss an episode of this transformative series. Subscribe to the Empart YouTube channel for more expert insights, practical tips, and honest conversations about menopause and mental health.

Important Note: Please remember that the information provided in this video is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider to discuss your unique symptoms and treatment options.

00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:12 Welcome Back to The Menopause Anxiety Project
00:02:39 Anxiety's Two Pathways
00:06:09 When Thoughts Fuel Fear
00:13:17 The Amygdala-Cortex Connection
00:20:04 Imagining the Worst
00:27:04 Don't Trust Your Cortex
00:32:41 Replacing Scary Thoughts
00:37:34 Identifying Anxiety Igniting Thoughts
00:41:48 Changing the Channel Takes Practice
00:47:01 Homework and What's Next
00:48:46 In the Next Episode

#menopause #anxiety #empart