Natalie's Story

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 7, Natalie from Oregon shares how she learned to cope with the uncertainty of her twenties and overcame debilitating panic & anxiety attacks.  After graduating from college, Natalie felt immense pressure to make all the right choices, fearing one misstep could mess up the rest of her life. But a series of panic attacks threw a wrench in her plans. Sharing the coping strategies that worked for her, Natalie reminds us that when we face our fears head-on, let go of what we can’t change, and lean on the people who love us, we discover how resilient we truly are. You’ll relate to Natalie’s story if you’ve ever:Felt the pressure to do everything right in your twentiesStruggled with anxiety or panic attacks  Resisted therapy out of fear of being labeled with a mental health disorderReframed a diagnosis into something you could embrace  Discovered simple solutions to calm yourself down during difficult momentsResources from the EpisodeNatalie’s Tools:*The Worry List: Set a 5-minute timer, write down everything bothering you; then cross off what’s outside your control, and make an action plan for what’s leftPhysical Grounding: Hold ice cubes or embrace something warm to bring yourself back to the present moment (practice safely, pls); put your feet up on the wall and breathe into your hands Bedtime Rituals: Build a nightly routine that works for you–consider stretching, journaling, reading, drinking water, and/or talking through your fears with a loved oneConnection & Self-Care: Honor yourself and lean into supportive relationships (including professional therapists and counselors) when things get hard*Listen to the episode for more! If you’re struggling with anxiety or mental health concerns, please seek support from a qualified healthcare provider.Berkeley’s Book Rec:The Anatomy of Anxiety: Understanding and Overcoming the Body’s Fear Response by Dr. Ellen Vora, MDThis is one of the most impactful books Berkeley read in her twenties. Psychiatrist Dr. Ellen Vora teaches us that “anxiety is not simply a brain disorder but a whole-body condition.” She shares the physical factors–including nutrition–that impact our mental health and empowers us with practical tools to support our bodies, manage, and even prevent anxiety. Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy MashburnBerkeley is a former political campaigner turned PR strategist turning 30 soon! After years of private scribbling and longing for the right outlet, she realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences in their twenties, to bring hope and confidence to women of all ages and remind those nearing thirty that the best is yet to come.Follow, Subscribe, and ShareDon’t miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. We're also on Instagram. If there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or a young woman who would benefit from Natalie’s story–pleasShare Your StoryIf you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!