Around this time of year, something shifts.

You might feel your anxiety climb, your energy crash, and your emotions spiral between motivation and exhaustion. If you’ve found yourself wondering, “What’s wrong with me?” — you’re not alone.

In this episode, Jessica Davis, licensed therapist and creator of The C.O.U.R.A.G.E. Method, breaks down the connection between anxiety and depression — especially how seasonal changes, school stress, and life transitions can make both feel heavier. You’ll learn three research-backed ways to reset your mind, re-engage with life, and rediscover a sense of control even when everything feels overwhelming.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How anxiety can disguise itself as depression (and why that’s more common than you think)
• The difference between consuming and creating — and how tiny acts of creation rebuild motivation
• A practical “effort + reward” strategy to retrain your brain’s motivation system
• Why your expectations shape how you experience life — and how to adjust them to reduce pressure
• The one mindset shift that helps you feel capable again, even when you feel stuck

Takeaway:
You don’t have to wait for motivation to start; you create it. Every small act of courage, even when life feels heavy, is proof that you’re still moving forward.

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Dr. Scott Eilers – on the link between purpose and depression
• Steve Bartlett – “The Diary of a CEO” on expectations and happiness

Got a question or feedback? Text us and share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you!

RESOURCES:
Get your FREE Anxiety Survival Toolkit to help you when your anxiety is overwhelming!

Grab your FREE 90-Day Courage Challenge Cheat Sheet and start building confidence today.

📱 Follow Us:

Instagram | Facebook | Threads

🎙️ Presented by Davis-Smith Mental Health

This podcast was created by Davis-Smith Mental Health, offering counseling for teens & young adults in Illinois (only). We accept BCBS PPO, Aetna PPO, and self-pay clients.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Block Out the Noise provides personal insights and practical strategies to help manage anxiety and self-doubt. The content is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional mental health care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a crisis or need immediate assistance, please contact emergency services or a trusted mental health professional immediately.