Anxiety at Work: How to Handle It and When to Seek Support

Anxiety at Work
Anxiety at Work

If you’re feeling anxious at work, you’re not alone.

For many women, the workplace is a major source of stress — whether it’s constant worry about performance, fear of speaking up in meetings, anxiety attacks triggered by work demands, or burnout from trying to juggle too much.

The good news? There are practical ways to handle anxiety at work, and resources available if you need extra support.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

✔️ Why workplace anxiety happens
✔️ How to combat anxiety at work
✔️ When to seek therapy or professional help

At Anchored Tides Recovery in Orange County, we specialize in helping women heal from anxiety and trauma — including the anxiety that shows up in your work life. You don’t have to manage it alone.

Is Anxiety at Work Normal?

Yes — workplace anxiety is very common.

Work environments today can be incredibly demanding, and many women feel pressure to “hold it all together” — even when inside they feel anything but calm.

In fact, nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience an anxiety disorder each year — and the workplace is one of the most common triggers.

Why the modern workplace causes anxiety:

  • Toxic cultures where people fear speaking up
  • Heavy workloads and unrealistic expectations
  • Lack of control over priorities or schedules
  • Blurred work-life boundaries (especially with remote work)
  • Workplace trauma or harassment
  • Perfectionism and imposter syndrome

Workplace anxiety vs. normal work stress:

Feeling a bit nervous before a big presentation? That’s normal.

Feeling constant dread, physical symptoms, or panic about going to work? That may signal workplace anxiety — and you deserve support.

Signs You Might Be Struggling With Workplace Anxiety

Emotional Signs:

  • Dread about starting your workday
  • Persistent worry about performance
  • Feeling on edge or irritable at work
  • Low mood, loss of motivation

Physical Signs:

  • Headaches or migraines
  • Fatigue or insomnia
  • Muscle tension
  • Stomachaches or nausea

Behavioral Signs:

  • Avoiding tasks or procrastinating
  • Perfectionism that keeps you stuck
  • Withdrawing from coworkers
  • Calling in sick frequently

If these signs sound familiar, you’re not alone. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we help women break free from workplace anxiety and reclaim their confidence.

Common Causes of Workplace Anxiety

Common Causes of Workplace Anxiety

Why do I feel anxious at work every day?

Many factors can contribute to ongoing workplace anxiety:

Fear of criticism, lack of trust, harassment, discrimination

Feeling like work consumes your entire life

Unclear priorities, shifting goals, micromanagement

Setting impossible standards and fearing failure

Work situations that mirror past trauma or unsafe experiences

Chronic exhaustion and depletion from prolonged stress

If you’re navigating any of these challenges, know that healing is possible. Workplace anxiety is not a personal weakness — it’s often a trauma response to an unhealthy environment.

How to Combat Anxiety at Work

How can I calm down when I feel anxious at work?

Here are 8 actionable strategies:

Awareness is the first step — notice the symptoms without judgment.
Deep breathing, body scans, movement breaks, progressive muscle relaxation.
Protect your time and energy. It’s okay to say no or to log off at a reasonable hour.
Prioritize rest, hobbies, and time with loved ones outside of work.
Challenge all-or-nothing thinking or catastrophic worries.

Connect with supportive coworkers, mentors, friends, or a therapist.

Share what you need (flexibility, clearer priorities, boundaries) when it feels safe to do so.

If anxiety is impacting your health or quality of life, therapy can provide transformative support.

When you feel stuck in workplace anxiety, Anchored Tides Recovery is here to help. Our trauma-informed therapy empowers women to build resilience and reclaim joy at work and beyond.

When to Seek Therapy for Workplace Anxiety

Should I see a therapist for work anxiety?

Here are signs that therapy may help:

  • Anxiety is affecting your sleep, health, or personal life
  • You experience panic attacks at work
  • You constantly dread going to work
  • Your performance is suffering despite your efforts
  • You’ve tried coping tools but still feel overwhelmed

Therapy at Anchored Tides Recovery can help you:

  • Heal underlying trauma
  • Build healthy coping skills
  • Navigate workplace stress with more resilience
  • Regain your confidence and sense of safety

Why Women Experience Unique Challenges With Workplace Anxiety

Unequal pay, fewer opportunities for advancement

Internalized beliefs about not being “good enough”

Caregiving demands on top of full-time work

Traumatic experiences that compound anxiety

Pressure to be “nice,” compliant, or silent about needs and boundaries

Connect with supportive coworkers, mentors, friends, or a therapist.

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we understand these challenges. Our women-centered therapy creates space to process, heal, and rebuild confidence.

How Anchored Tides Recovery Can Help With Anxiety at Work

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we know that workplace anxiety isn’t just about your job — it’s about how work stress intersects with trauma, self-worth, identity, and life demands.

Our holistic, trauma-informed approach includes:

✔️ Individual therapy to explore root causes of anxiety
✔️ Group therapy with other supportive women
✔️ Skill-building for managing perfectionism, boundaries, and self-care
✔️ Somatic therapies to calm the body
✔️ Mindfulness, yoga, art therapy, and more

Whether you’re seeking outpatient therapy, trauma treatment, or ongoing mental health support, our programs are designed to help you thrive — both at work and in life.

Ready to Reclaim Your Confidence at Work?

If workplace anxiety is holding you back, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Contact Anchored Tides Recovery today to explore our therapy options and start building the tools for lasting resilience.

Get Help for Workplace Anxiety — Contact Us Today

FAQs About Anxiety at Work

Workplace anxiety is persistent worry, fear, or distress triggered by work situations, environments, or expectations.

Practice grounding techniques, set boundaries, reframe negative thoughts, and seek therapy if needed. — call (866) 329-6639 today.

Common causes include toxic work environments, perfectionism, trauma, poor work-life balance, and burnout. Learn more information burnout and depression.

It’s very common — but when it starts impacting your well-being, it’s important to seek support.

If you feel safe, you can share what support you need. Therapy can also help you navigate this conversation — call (866) 329-6639 today.

If anxiety is affecting your sleep, health, relationships, or performance, therapy can provide powerful support — call (866) 329-6639 or submit a message today.

Therapy helps you heal the root causes of anxiety, build coping skills, and restore your confidence and resilience — call (866) 329-6639 or submit a message today.

Helpful Resources and Next Steps:

Anchored Tides Recovery is a women’s addiction treatment center in Orange County offering PHP, IOP, and trauma-informed care designed to empower women through every stage of recovery.

PHP vs IOP: Which Level of Care Is Right for You?

PHP vs IOP - Outpatient Programs
PHP vs IOP - Outpatient Programs

If you’re considering treatment for addiction or mental health challenges, you may be wondering: “What is the difference between PHP and IOP?”

Both Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) offer valuable support for women seeking recovery. But they differ in structure, intensity, and the kind of care they provide.

Choosing the right level of care can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re already navigating a difficult time. This guide will walk you through the key differences between PHP and IOP, so you can make the choice that best fits your needs, lifestyle, and recovery goals.

At Anchored Tides Recovery in Orange County, we offer both PHP and IOP designed specifically for women, with trauma-informed, holistic care that supports healing on every level.

PHP vs IOP at a Glance

Here’s a quick side-by-side look at how these two programs compare:

Feature PHP IOP
Intensity
High (daily, 6–8 hours/day)
Moderate (3–5 days/week, 2–4 hours/day)
Medical Oversight
Frequent and comprehensive
Less frequent, therapy-focused
Structure
Highly structured, immersive
Flexible, integrates with daily life
Ideal For
Early recovery, stabilization, co-occurring disorders
Ongoing recovery, returning to work/school, maintaining progress
Flexibility
Lower
Higher

What Is PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)?

PHP is a highly structured treatment program that provides intensive support while allowing you to return home or to sober living at night.

Who is PHP for?

  • Women needing intensive support after detox
  • Women stepping down from inpatient or residential care
  • Women with complex mental health or co-occurring disorders
  • Women whose recovery is fragile and who need structured care

What does PHP involve?

  • Treatment 5–7 days/week, 6–8 hours/day
  • Individual therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Psychiatric care and medication management
  • Holistic therapies (yoga, art therapy, mindfulness)
  • Medical monitoring when needed

Benefits of PHP at Anchored Tides Recovery:

  • Supportive, empowering women-centered environment
  • Deep healing through evidence-based and holistic approaches
  • Focus on stabilization and building a strong foundation for long-term recovery

What Is IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program)?

IOP offers structured treatment with more flexibility, making it ideal for women balancing recovery with life responsibilities.

Who is IOP for?

  • Women stepping down from PHP or inpatient care
  • Women needing more support than traditional outpatient therapy
  • Women who are stable in their recovery but benefit from continued structure
  • Women returning to work, school, or family life

What does IOP involve?

  • Treatment 3–5 days/week, 2–4 hours/day
  • Group therapy
  • Individual counseling
  • Psychoeducation sessions
  • Relapse prevention and life skills
  • Access to holistic therapies

Benefits of IOP at Anchored Tides Recovery:

  • Flexibility to maintain work, school, and family life
  • Continued connection with a supportive recovery community
  • Ongoing skill-building to sustain sobriety and mental wellness

How Do I Know What Level of Treatment I Need?

If you’re unsure whether PHP or IOP is right for you, here are some key questions to consider:

  • Are you currently stable enough to manage life responsibilities?
  • Do you need daily therapeutic support and medical oversight?
  • Are you transitioning from detox, residential, or inpatient care?
  • Is your home environment supportive of recovery?
  • Do you have co-occurring mental health conditions that need intensive support?
  • How much structure and accountability do you need right now?

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we help every woman assess her unique situation through a personalized evaluation. Together, we’ll determine the level of care that best meets your needs and recovery goals.

Key Differences Between PHP and IOP

Aspect PHP IOP
Time Commitment
High — full-day sessions
Moderate — part-time sessions
Medical Oversight
Frequent and comprehensive
Less frequent, therapy-focused
Structure
Highly structured
Flexible, real-world application
Stage of Recovery
Early recovery, high risk
Stable recovery, maintenance
Ideal Candidate
Women needing intensive support and stabilization
Women transitioning to independent living and ongoing recovery

What Kind of Therapy Will I Get in PHP vs IOP?

Both PHP and IOP offer evidence-based and trauma-informed therapy — but the focus and intensity vary:

In PHP:

  • Daily therapy sessions (individual and group)
  • Psychiatric care and medication management
  • Medical monitoring for stabilization
  • Crisis intervention
  • Holistic therapies (yoga, mindfulness, art therapy)
  • Trauma therapy and emotional regulation work

In IOP:

  • Structured group therapy several times/week
  • Individual counseling
  • Psychoeducation and life skills development
  • Relapse prevention strategies
  • Continued access to holistic therapies
  • Less frequent medical oversight, greater emphasis on real-world application

Both programs at Anchored Tides Recovery are designed to help women heal from the inside out — not just treating symptoms, but fostering lasting transformation.

How Do I Choose PHP or IOP Based on My Schedule?

Personal schedule and life responsibilities are key factors in deciding between PHP and IOP:

Factor PHP IOP
Time Commitment
High — like a full-time job
Moderate — fits with work/school
Work/School
May require a leave or schedule adjustment
Can often continue work/school
Family/Caregiving
Less flexibility
More manageable for caregivers
Self-Discipline
Highly structured, external accountability
More self-discipline required outside sessions
Ideal Stage
Early stabilization, intense need
Stable recovery, life reintegration

If you have significant outside responsibilities — such as work, school, or caregiving — IOP may be a better fit.

If you need full-day structure and clinical support to stabilize, PHP may be more appropriate.

Our team can help you make this decision during your assessment process.

Why Choose Anchored Tides Recovery for PHP and IOP?

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we understand that women’s recovery journeys are unique. Our programs are designed by women, for women — with a deep understanding of the challenges women face in healing from addiction, trauma, and mental health struggles.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Women-centered care: Our entire program is built around supporting women’s recovery needs.
  • Trauma-informed treatment: We address the root causes of addiction and mental health struggles — not just the symptoms.
  • Holistic healing: In addition to evidence-based therapies, we offer yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, and more to support whole-person wellness.
  • Community connection: You’ll find a strong, supportive community of women who understand your journey and walk it with you.
  • Flexible, personalized care: Whether you need PHP, IOP, or a step-down approach, we tailor our programs to fit your life and recovery goals.

Located in Orange County, California, we serve women from throughout Southern California and across the U.S. — offering a safe, empowering space where women can truly heal.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re wondering whether PHP or IOP is the right next step for your recovery, we’re here to help.

Contact Anchored Tides Recovery today to schedule your personalized assessment. Our experienced, compassionate team will help you find the level of care that matches your needs — and walk with you every step of the way toward a healthier, brighter future.

Get Help Now — Explore our PHP and IOP programs for women in Orange County.

Frequently Asked Questions

PHP is a more intensive, full-day program with medical oversight, ideal for women needing stabilization. IOP offers part-time, flexible treatment for women in more stable stages of recovery. — call (866) 329-6639 today.

Our team will help assess your unique needs through a personalized evaluation to recommend the right level of care — call (866) 329-6639 today.

Both programs offer trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy. PHP provides more intensive daily therapy and medical care; IOP focuses on skill-building and life integration. Contact us today for more information.

IOP offers more flexibility for women balancing caregiving or family responsibilities.

We provide women-centered, trauma-informed, holistic care in a supportive community — helping women heal and thrive — call (866) 329-6639 today.

Helpful Resources and Next Steps:

Anchored Tides Recovery is a women’s addiction treatment center in Orange County offering PHP, IOP, and trauma-informed care designed to empower women through every stage of recovery.

Is My Binge Drinking Becoming a Problem?

Is My Binge Drinking Becoming a Problem
Is My Binge Drinking Becoming a Problem

If you’re asking yourself this question, you’re already taking an important first step. Many women use alcohol to unwind, cope with stress, or fit in socially — and sometimes it can be hard to tell when occasional drinking crosses the line into something harmful.

You might be wondering:

✔️Am I drinking too much?
✔️ Is my binge drinking putting me at risk?
✔️ Do I need help to stop?

We’ll help you understand what binge drinking is, how to know if it’s becoming a problem, and how to take action if you’re ready for change. Whether you want to cut back, quit binge drinking, or explore treatment options, Anchored Tides Recovery is here to support you.

What Is Binge Drinking?

Binge drinking refers to a pattern of drinking that raises your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08% or higher. For women, this usually means consuming four or more drinks during a single occasion.

Unlike alcohol dependence — which involves a physical need to drink — binge drinking often happens in episodes. But even occasional binge drinking can cause serious harm to your health, relationships, and well-being.

How Common Is Binge Drinking?

If you’re wondering whether your drinking habits are unusual, you’re not alone. In fact, binge drinking is one of the most widespread patterns of excessive alcohol use in the U.S. — and it often goes unrecognized.

Understanding how common this behavior is — and the risks it carries — can help you put your own experience into perspective and decide whether it’s time to seek help. Here’s what the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals about alcohol use and binge drinking across the country:

Alcohol Use in the U.S.: Key Stats

Alcohol use is widespread among adults in the United States:

  • More than half of U.S. adults report drinking alcohol.
  • About 17% engage in binge drinking — defined as consuming 4 or more drinks for women or 5 or more drinks for men during a single occasion.
  • Roughly 6% of adults drink heavily — meaning they consume 8 or more drinks per week for women or 15 or more drinks per week for men.
  • The vast majority of adults who drink heavily also report episodes of binge drinking.

Binge Drinking: The Most Common Form of Excessive Drinking

Among the various patterns of excessive alcohol use, binge drinking is by far the most common:

  • Over 9 in 10 adults who drink excessively report episodes of binge drinking.
  • Most people who binge drink are not diagnosed with alcohol dependence — but this does not make the behavior safe. Even without physical dependence, binge drinking exposes individuals to serious risks.
  • Compared to those who do not binge drink, individuals who binge drink are significantly more likely to experience physical health problems, mental health challenges, and social consequences related to alcohol use.

While it’s important to understand how common binge drinking is, the most crucial question is this: how is it affecting your life? Let’s look at the key signs that your binge drinking may be becoming a problem.

Signs Your Binge Drinking May Be a Problem

It’s not just about how much you drink — it’s about the impact it’s having. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

  • Do you drink more than you planned, or drink until you black out?
  • Do you binge drink alone or in secret?
  • Are you missing work, school, or family commitments because of drinking or hangovers?
  • Have loved ones expressed concern about your drinking?
  • Do you find it hard to stop once you start drinking?
  • Have you tried to quit binge drinking and been unable to?
  • Are you using alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, trauma, or emotions?
  • Are you taking dangerous risks while under the influence (driving, unprotected sex, unsafe situations)?

If you answered yes to one or more of these, it may be time to explore options for binge drinking treatment or recovery.

Ready to take the first step? Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.

Risks of Binge Drinking

Binge drinking can affect your life in ways you may not even realize:

Short-term risks:

  • Accidents and injuries
  • Risky sexual behavior
  • Alcohol poisoning
  • Memory loss or blackouts

Long-term effects:

  • Increased risk of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD)
  • Liver damage
  • Heart problems
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Relationship struggles
  • Poor performance at work or school

Even if you’re not drinking every day, frequent binge drinking episodes can have a serious impact on your health and future.

Can I Stop Binge Drinking On My Own?

It’s a common question: “Can I stop binge drinking on my own?”

The answer depends on your individual situation. Some women can reduce their drinking with lifestyle changes and support. But if binge drinking is connected to underlying trauma, anxiety, depression, or addiction, professional help is often needed.

Trying to quit alone can be challenging — and potentially dangerous if withdrawal symptoms occur. If you’ve tried before and relapsed, or if your drinking is causing harm, that’s a sign to seek support.

How To Stop Binge Drinking: Steps You Can Take

If you’re ready to take action, here are some steps to consider:

Pay attention to what situations, emotions, or environments lead you to binge drink.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Explore apps to stop binge drinking, such as Reframe or Sober Grid, or read books on stopping binge drinking to learn new coping skills.

If binge drinking is difficult to stop on your own, treatment programs can help you build lasting recovery.

You don’t have to do this alone. Get help for binge drinking now.

Binge Drinking Treatment & Recovery Options

At Anchored Tides Recovery in Orange County, CA, we offer supportive, women-centered treatment to help you overcome binge drinking:

Binge Drinking Counseling

One-on-one counseling helps you explore the root causes of your drinking and build healthier coping strategies.

Binge Drinking Support Groups

Our support groups offer a safe space for women to connect, share experiences, and encourage each other.

Binge Drinking Programs

We provide a range of flexible options:

Rehab for Binge Drinking

For women needing more intensive support, we offer residential rehab in a structured, supportive environment.

Find a Binge Drinking Therapist

Our team can match you with an experienced therapist who specializes in helping women stop binge drinking and heal from underlying trauma.

Cost of Binge Drinking Treatment

Concerned about the cost? You may be surprised to learn that many insurance plans cover binge drinking treatment. At Anchored Tides Recovery:

  • We accept many insurance plans
  • We offer flexible outpatient programs to fit your schedule and budget
  • We’ll help you verify your coverage and explore options

Investing in your recovery is an investment in your health, your happiness, and your future.

How To Help Someone Stop Binge Drinking

If you’re searching for how to help someone stop binge drinking, here are a few tips:

  • Approach the conversation with compassion, not judgment
  • Express your concerns calmly and clearly
  • Encourage them to seek professional help — and offer to help research treatment options
  • Set healthy boundaries to protect your own well-being
  • Seek support for yourself as well — many binge drinking support groups welcome loved ones too

Contact us to learn more about helping a loved one through recovery.

Why Choose Anchored Tides Recovery?

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we specialize in helping women stop binge drinking and build lasting, fulfilling lives.

Our programs offer:

✔️ Women-centered care in a supportive environment
✔️ Trauma-informed, evidence-based treatment
✔️ Holistic therapies, including yoga and art therapy
✔️A strong, empowering community of women in recovery

Serving Orange County and Southern California, we help women across the region — and across the country — take back their lives from binge drinking.

Take the First Step Today

If you’ve been wondering, “Is my binge drinking becoming a problem?” — trust your instincts. You don’t have to keep struggling on your own.

Reach out to Anchored Tides Recovery today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you explore your options and start your recovery journey.

Women-Only Addiction Treatment in Huntington Beach - sunset at the Huntington Beach Pier

FAQs About Binge Drinking Treatment

If your drinking is causing problems or if you’ve tried to stop and can’t, treatment can help — call (866) 329-6639 today.

Some women can, but if binge drinking is frequent or linked to trauma, stress, or mental health issues, professional treatment is often the safest, most effective option — call (866) 329-6639 today.

We offer outpatient treatment, IOP, PHP, and residential options tailored to your needs.

Start with an open conversation, offer support, and encourage them to explore professional help. Our team can guide you — call (866) 329-6639 today.

Helpful Resources and Next Steps:

Anchored Tides Recovery is a women’s addiction treatment center in Orange County offering PHP, IOP, and trauma-informed care designed to empower women through every stage of recovery.