Show Notes
Episode 92. Thank God for My Anxiety? w/ Catherine DiNuzzo
Episode 92. Thank God for My Anxiety? w/ Catherine DiNuzzo
"Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you."
~ 1 Peter 5:7
What is anxiety, really?
How do I process my anxiety when it's not helpful?
Seriously - thanking God for my anxiety?
In this episode of This Whole Life, Kenna and Pat welcome licensed professional counselor Catherine DiNuzzo for a deep dive into anxiety—what it is, why it happens, and how to manage it. Catherine DiNuzzo shares her insights on the biology of anxiety, her work with clients, and the importance of approaching anxiety with self-compassion rather than fear (or more anxiety). The discussion covers the reasons that God built anxiety into our experience, practical strategies for managing anxiety, and how parents can support anxious children. Highlights include Catherine DiNuzzo’s perspective on thanking God for anxiety, grounding techniques, and the ways the Catholic faith naturally integrates mental wellness. With relatable stories and actionable advice, this episode offers hope, empathy, and spiritual wisdom for anyone looking to find peace amidst the struggles of modern life. And yes, you'll even thank God for your anxiety.
Catherine DiNuzzo, MA is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice, who also operates Sacred Heart Mental Wellness. Catherine earned her Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Services from the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs. Prior to her private practice, Catherine worked for several years in both schools and in agency counseling, especially with Veterans. She has spoken internationally and with many Catholic events & organizations on the topic of mental wellness.
Catherine and her husband, Dave, live in a small rural town in the middle of Kansas with their four amazing children.
Show Notes
Check out Catherine’s good work with Sacred Heart Mental Wellness
Get your copy of The Catholic Guide Through Anxiety
Anxiety doesn’t have to be scary, heavy, or sad
Are you able to thank the Lord for your anxiety?
“Anxiety” is a label that we assign to a feeling of our stomach turning, our heart racing, or brain fog
The natural responses associated with anxiety are a healthy reaction of our mind & body to legitimate threats
The problem arises when we have anxious responses to things that aren’t genuine threats and we don’t know how to process that anxiety
Our bodies are always processing stimulus, even when we’re not consciously thinking about it
One major sign that you need the help of a therapist is if your decisions are made by your anxiety, not by your free will
It is so important to get off the “anxiety hamster wheel,” feeling anxious ABOUT BEING anxious
One of the easiest and most effective ways of telling your body that you are safe is through slow, deep breathing that helps to slow your heart rate
Anxiety lives somewhere in the past or the future; grounding techniques help me to be PRESENT and to get out of an anxious place
The devil is winning when we think we have to leave the Church in order to deal with our anxiety
The Lord knew that we would need a place to go to have our senses inundated with grace and holy input: the repetitive prayers, the bodily postures, the smells, the sounds, etc.
Challenge By Choice
Don’t be a bully
to yourself
Pay attention to your self-talk and work toward compassion toward yourself
Even when you’ve made a big mistake or done something truly sinful
Reflection Questions
For personal reflection or group discussion
What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
When have you felt anxious? How do you know when you’re anxious - what emotions, sensations, or experiences do you associate with anxiety?
When has anxiety served you well and protected you in the past? When has anxiety been an obstacle or a hardship for you?
What are the things that bring up anxiety for you most often?
How do you process anxiety when it’s not needed or helpful? How might you grow in processing & grounding when anxiety shows up?