There are a lot of apps for anxiety now. Many are well made, and some have good research behind them. If you’ve been feeling anxious, downloading one can feel like a sensible first step, and for some people it is.
But in my experience of working with clients, an in-person session often helps more in the early stages, when anxiety is new, confusing or hard to put into words.
When we’re in the same room
The main reason is simple. When we’re in the same room, I can see you.
Anxiety shows up in the body as much as in the mind. I notice when your breathing quickens, when your shoulders rise, when you go quiet or start talking faster. I can see when an exercise is helping and when it’s making you more uncomfortable. That lets me adjust as we go: slowing things down, trying a different breathing pace, switching to a grounding exercise instead, or simply pausing to talk about what came up.
Why one size doesn’t fit everyone
An app gives everyone the same instructions at the same pace, whether they suit you or not. If a breathing exercise makes you feel more panicky, which can happen at first, an app won’t notice. Many people then decide that “breathing exercises don’t work for me” and give up on something that might have helped with a small change.
People really do respond differently. Some relax with slow breathing. For others, focusing on the breath makes them more aware of a racing heart, and it is easier to start with their feet on the floor or the sounds around them. Working this out together is much quicker in person.
Having a calm person beside you
Being with someone makes a difference in itself. When anxiety is high, it can be steadying just to have a calm person beside you who understands what’s happening and isn’t alarmed by it. Over time, you learn that the feelings can rise and settle, and that you can get through them.
Where apps can help
That doesn’t mean apps have no place. Once you’ve found what works for you, an app can be a useful reminder between sessions, or a way to keep practising on your own. I see them as a helpful companion rather than a starting point.
If you do use one, look for short, simple practices and notice how you feel afterwards. If an exercise regularly leaves you feeling worse, it is worth stopping and talking it through with someone.
Getting started
If anxiety is starting to affect your work, sleep or relationships, an in-person session in Palakkad can be a good place to begin. Sessions are available in English, Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi and Telugu, and online if travelling isn’t possible. You’re welcome to book an appointment.
