Saturday Morning Tea - Growth, Maintenance & Relapse Prevention
Healing from anxiety is not a one-time achievement—it is an ongoing process of maintenance, self-awareness, and skill reinforcement. Prepare for setbacks without fear, and create a sustainable plan to maintain progress over time.
Lesson 7.1: Redefining Progress (What Healing Actually Looks Like)
Why Expectations Matter
Many people believe healing means:
  • No anxiety
  • No triggers
  • No difficult days
This belief often leads to discouragement when anxiety resurfaces.
Progress looks like:
  • Faster recovery after anxiety spikes
  • Reduced avoidance
  • Increased confidence despite discomfort
  • Improved self-trust
  • Less fear of anxiety itself
Reframe the Thought..
The return of anxiety does not mean failure—it means you are human.
Daily Affirmation: “Progress is measured by response, not absence.”
Micro Exercise (5 minutes):Write three ways your response to anxiety has changed since starting this course.
Lesson 7.2: Understanding Setbacks (Why Anxiety Comes Back)
Anxiety may increase during:
  • Major life changes
  • Illness or sleep disruption
  • High stress periods
  • Hormonal changes
  • Reduced use of coping skills
Setbacks are predictable, not personal.
The Danger of Catastrophic Thinking - Common setback thoughts:
  • “I’m back at square one.”
  • “Nothing worked.”
  • “I’ll always be like this.”
These thoughts can trigger a full relapse if believed.
Reframe the Thought
A setback is a signal to re-engage skills, not abandon them.
Daily Affirmation: “I know how to respond when anxiety returns.”
Lesson 7.3: Early Warning Signs & Personal Triggers
Catching anxiety early prevents escalation.
Common Early Warning Signs
  • Increased rumination
  • Sleep disruption
  • Heightened irritability
  • Avoidance behaviors
  • Increased reassurance-seeking
  • Reduced self-care
Daily Affirmation: “Awareness gives me choice.”
Micro Exercise (5 minutes):Create a personal list of your top 5 early warning signs.
12:18
0
0 comments
Regina Speights
3
Saturday Morning Tea - Growth, Maintenance & Relapse Prevention
powered by
The Mental Health Collective
skool.com/the-mental-health-collective-7564
The Mental Health Collective is a clinician-led community designed to empower mental wellness through daily affirmations, and practical tools.
Build your own community
Bring people together around your passion and get paid.
Powered by