August often means returning to work, school, and new plans.

A new job. Moving to a new place. Starting school. Even a long-awaited vacation.

These are positive changes, so why do they sometimes make us feel anxious?

The answer is simple: our brain sees any change as uncertainty. Uncertainty requires extra attention, energy, and adjustment. That's why even positive life events can bring feelings of worry, tension, or uneasiness.

This is especially common after a long period of stress. When our nervous system has spent months or years in "survival mode," it doesn't switch into "safe mode" overnight. It needs time to adjust.

Try this simple exercise.

When you notice anxiety, ask yourself:

- What is a fact, and what is just my assumption?

- Am I in danger right now, at this moment?

- What is one small thing I can do in the next 10 minutes to take care of myself?

Anxiety doesn't always mean something bad is about to happen. Sometimes it's simply your nervous system learning that it is safe to slow down again.

Reach out to us if you need any assistance - mentalhelp@cuias.org