Dealing with anxiety? Yeah, me too. And if you looked at who I follow on Instagram, you’d see one of my favorite ways to explore this part of me: following artists, writers, and mental health practitioners who have been there. This list of accounts is a mix of creatives who have struggled with mental health and know the value in sharing their story and connecting with others who are going through anxiety and depression, as well as professionals who have studied mental health extensively, and of course–a lot of times those lines blur. Many people with a desire to connect with others dealing with anxiety have experienced it themselves. While no user on Instagram can or should offer us the relief we often desire, there is so much we can learn and reflect on within their content…
Somatic Trauma Practitioner Claire Rother (@claire_diane_) is an expert on the stress response, our nervous systems (which for anxious people are stuck on survival mode), burnout, and healing from trauma. We’ll share more of our favorite healing accounts later on, but this one tops my list for both.
Therapist and boundaries expert Nedra Glover Tawwab (@nedratawwab) helps us cultivate healthy relationships inside and out.
@dearmyanxiety is one woman’s experience with anxiety and what it means to her. Each post is a little reflection, tip, or note, that always starts a wonderful conversation. She also posts regular anxiety “check ins” which make us all feel like a valuable part of the community.
@selfcarespotlight covers everything from anxiety to mindfulness to personal growth in the prettiest way, using sweet illustrations and pastels that instantly soothe.
@dr.leahkatz is incredibly insightful on the topics of stress, mental health, and burnout.
Amy of @doodledwellness, who is a PhD candidate in Psychology, posts about mental health, self love, and mindfulness.
@jennaisfeeling is a colorful diary of artist and writer Jenna’s experience with anxiety and depression.
Amanda White of @therapyforwomen offers mainly quick snippets to help you reflect and bring awareness to your mental state throughout your day. I also love her deeper-dives into anxiety, such as the difference between avoidance and rest (I could cry I relate so deeply).
Queer artist and owner of workspace and community, Luna Cooperative, Jess of @blessthemessy offers uplifting messages within beautiful illustrations and colors. Perfect for those of us who are visually inspired!
Kathryn of @yourholistichealer is an Empath and HSP coach helping us understand our sensitivities and how to look at ourselves with compassion, not judgment.
A sense of community can go a long way when we’re dealing with anxiety. There have been many times throughout my life I felt isolated by feelings on anxiousness, and having these accounts to check in on is a generous reminder that I am not alone.
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