04/20/2026
Sometimes it can be very helpful to treat anxiety as something outside of you rather than as who you are.
This may sound playful, but try giving your anxiety a name. You might call it Frank, or any name that makes you smile a little.
The purpose is to remind yourself that anxiety is only a bothersome voice passing through—it is not you, and it is not in charge.
So when anxious feelings begin, instead of saying, “Oh dear, I’m so anxious,” gently change the thought to something like:
“Oh, there goes Frank again, making all that noise.”
Then speak to it firmly but kindly:
“Frank, I hear you, but I’m not interested today. You may chatter if you like, but I am not going to listen.”
This creates a little distance between you and the anxiety. You become the calm observer, and anxiety becomes nothing more than an annoying commentator in the background.
You can even borrow the famous phrase Ronald Reagan once used in a debate:
“There you go again, Frank.”
Say it with a small smile if you can. Humor often takes power away from fear.
Then follow it with a clear decision:
“Nobody is listening to you, Frank. You should take a rest.”
After that, gently turn your attention toward something soothing and real.
For example:
Put the kettle on and make a warm cup of tea.
Step outside and sit in the garden.
Notice the flowers, the sky, the breeze, or the birds.
Slowly breathe in for four counts and out for six.
Wrap yourself in a soft blanket or sit in a comfortable chair.
Read a favorite poem, prayer, or comforting passage.
The goal is not to “fight” anxiety. The goal is to refuse to let it run the day. You are reminding yourself:
“This is only Frank making noise. I do not have to join the commotion.”
Over time, the more calmly you respond this way, the less powerful Frank may seem. Anxiety often wants attention. When you stop feeding it and instead turn toward peace, it often quiets down.
And most importantly, remember this: you are still the one in charge. Frank is just noise.
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