Sometimes the hardest part of anxiety is not the first feeling of fear. It is the fear of what the fear might mean: “What if I panic?” “What if I lose control?” “What if I cannot cope?” “What if this feeling never stops?”

This is often called fear of fear. The body notices an anxious sensation, the mind interprets it as dangerous, and the extra fear can make the sensations feel even stronger.

This hypnosis meditation is designed to support a calmer response to anxiety sensations and the thoughts that follow them. It is not about forcing fear away or pretending that every physical symptom is anxiety. It is about reducing the struggle that can keep the fear cycle going.

Step out of the fear-of-fear cycle

Anxiety can create sensations such as a racing heart, tight chest, dizziness, trembling or a feeling of unreality. When you become afraid of those sensations, your attention may become locked onto them. You may avoid places, situations or activities because you fear becoming anxious.

This guided hypnosis may help you practise responding with more patience and less urgency. You can learn to notice a sensation without immediately assuming that it means danger or that you must escape.

You may use this recording to support:

• Reducing fear of panic sensations

• Feeling more grounded when anxiety rises

• Letting go of the urge to constantly monitor your body

• Building confidence in your ability to pause and breathe

• Feeling less afraid of feeling afraid

• Reducing avoidance linked with anxiety

• Returning attention to the present moment

You do not need to win a battle against fear. You can allow a feeling to rise and fall while reminding yourself that you can choose your next step.

Do not listen while driving, cycling, operating machinery or doing anything that requires your full attention.

Medical safety comes first

Anxiety sensations can overlap with physical symptoms that need medical assessment. Do not assume that chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, dizziness or unfamiliar symptoms are “just anxiety.”

If symptoms are new, severe, worsening or concerning, seek medical advice. In an emergency in Australia, call Triple Zero (000). Hypnosis may support relaxation and self-reflection, but it is not a substitute for medical, psychological, psychiatric or emergency care.

If fear of fear, panic attacks or avoidance are persistent or affecting your daily life, speak with a GP, psychologist or psychiatrist.

Private hypnotherapy for panic and anxiety in Brisbane

Clive Westwood offers calm, private and non-judgmental one-to-one hypnotherapy for anxiety, panic attacks, overthinking and related concerns in Brisbane and online where appropriate.

Practising since 2013, Clive has a special interest in anxiety, panic attacks, overthinking and phobias. Sessions are tailored to your goals, experiences and pace. He works with adults, teenagers and children where appropriate.

A private session can provide supportive space to explore the fear cycle and the impact it is having on your confidence, sleep, work, relationships or daily activities.

Award-recognised Brisbane hypnotherapy

Clive Westwood is a Clinical Member of the Australian Hypnotherapy Association. His practice has been recognised by ThreeBestRated and the Quality Business Awards.

He has also been featured on Today Tonight, 9 News, ABC Radio and 2GB Radio. You can explore Google reviews, video testimonials from real clients and extensive free hypnosis and guided-meditation resources online.

Watch Clive Westwood on Today Tonight

Learn more about Clive Westwood Hypnotherapy

Brisbane clinic and online appointments

From 1 October 2026, face-to-face appointments will be available at Room 9, Perfect Wellness, 148 Arthur Terrace, Red Hill QLD 4059.

The Red Hill clinic is convenient for people seeking panic attack and anxiety support near Ashgrove, Paddington, Bardon, Kelvin Grove, Newmarket, Petrie Terrace, Brisbane City, Spring Hill, Herston, Milton, Bowen Hills and Fortitude Valley. Online appointments may also be available for suitable clients.

Frequently asked questions

What does fear of fear mean?

It describes becoming anxious about anxiety itself—for example, fearing panic sensations, worrying that you will lose control or avoiding situations where you think anxiety may happen.

Can hypnosis stop panic attacks?

Hypnosis cannot guarantee that panic attacks will stop. It may help some people practise relaxation and respond to anxiety with less fear. Individual experiences vary.

Should I ignore physical symptoms?

No. New, severe, worsening or unexplained symptoms need medical assessment. Do not rely on a hypnosis recording to determine whether symptoms are safe.

Can I book a private session?

Yes. Private sessions are tailored to your individual goals, experiences and pace.

Discuss an appointment with Clive Westwood

Individual results vary. Hypnotherapy is complementary support and is not a replacement for medical, psychological, psychiatric or emergency care.