Understanding Anxiety Sensitivity

As a therapist, one of the most common and misunderstood issues I see is anxiety sensitivity. It’s not just about feeling anxious—it's about fearing the sensations that come with anxiety.

Anxiety sensitivity is the tendency to interpret physical symptoms of anxiety (like a racing heart, shortness of breath, or dizziness) as dangerous. For example, someone with high anxiety sensitivity might feel their heart pounding and immediately worry they’re having a heart attack. The sensation itself becomes the trigger, creating a cycle of fear about fear.

This can be incredibly distressing. Many of my clients say, “It’s not just the anxiety—it’s the fear of what it means.” They avoid exercise, caffeine, or even intense emotions, because these things mimic anxiety symptoms. Unfortunately, avoidance only reinforces the fear and can shrink a person’s life over time.

The good news? Anxiety sensitivity is treatable. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps by challenging catastrophic thoughts and gradually exposing people to the sensations they fear—on purpose. This might sound counterintuitive, but it builds confidence that these feelings, while uncomfortable, are not dangerous.

If you recognize yourself in this, know you’re not alone—and you’re not broken. Anxiety sensitivity is a pattern, not a life sentence. With the right tools, it can change.