Let’s talk about why this happens… because it’s not just “being sensitive” or “overreacting.”

When anxiety or depression is hanging around, your nervous system gets jumpy. It starts scanning everything like it’s responsible for keeping you alive… because it thinks it is.

So your brain looks at neutral things & tries to assign meaning…

😮 A short text becomes rejection.

😮 A delayed reply becomes anger.

😮 A change in plans becomes abandonment.

Not because you’re weak… but because your system is running on high alert.

The Problem With High Alert

High alert is great if a bear is chasing you.

High alert is trash when you’re just trying to live a normal Tuesday.

Because when your body is in that mode, it’s not asking “Is this true?”

It’s asking “Is this safe?”

And if your brain decides it’s not safe, it starts building a case… fast.

The Lies My Brain Tells Me

Here are a few greatest hits from my personal anxiety playlist:

😵‍💫 “They’re mad at you.”

😵‍💫 “You’re annoying.”

😵‍💫 “You said the wrong thing.”

😵‍💫 “You’re falling behind.”

😵‍💫 “Everyone can tell you’re struggling.”

And the wild part? Those thoughts feel like facts while they’re happening.

A Tiny Shift That Helps

When I’m spiraling, I’m trying to swap the question.

Instead of “What did I do wrong?” I’m trying…

“What else could be true?”

🤔 Maybe they’re busy.

🤔 Maybe they’re tired.

🤔 Maybe their phone died.

🤔 Maybe they’re dealing with their own stuff.

🤔 Maybe it’s not about me.

A Little Permission Slip

If your nervous system is loud right now… you’re not broken.

You’re not weak.

You’re a human with a brain that’s trying to protect you… even when it’s doing a terrible job at it.

This is Journeys With Jani… and if you needed a reminder today that you’re not alone in this, consider this it.

XOXO, Jani