Cognitive Models of Anxiety

Cognitive models of anxiety suggest that anxious feelings stem from the way we interpret and think about situations. When people view events as threatening or believe they lack control, their minds generate worry and fear. These negative thought patterns maintain and worsen anxiety. For example, someone might interpret a harmless social situation as a risk, leading to increased nervousness. By changing these thought patterns—challenging negative beliefs and focusing on realistic assessments—individuals can reduce their anxiety. Essentially, anxiety arises from our thoughts about potential dangers, rather than the dangers themselves, and can be managed by altering these patterns.