Nearly 12 years ago – early into my climbing journey, I had a full-blown panic attack at the gym. As a beginner climber, I was so worried about people watching me and thinking, "Wow, that girl really has no idea what she's doing." I felt embarrassed and didn't want anyone to think poorly of me. Irrational? Yes - but I'm confident I'm not the only one who's been there.
For most of my life, I’ve struggled with general social anxiety without fully understanding what it was. It wasn't until this exact moment so many years ago that I recognized the extent of how my own brain was working against me. It was a turning point, not just in my climbing but every aspect of my life.
I decided to stick it out – I kept going to the gym. The more you go somewhere, the more familiar it becomes – the less scary it feels. Somewhere along the way, I discovered that at the end of the day, I was the only one holding myself back. The climbing community, as it turned out, was (and still is) incredibly supportive. Whether I was sending my first V1 or working on a 5.12 project, there was always someone happy for me, cheering me on. Over time, I realized that this community could be a powerful support system in managing my anxiety.
The climbing gym gradually became my second home – a place where I felt accepted, supported, and empowered. Even when surrounded by strangers, I knew I belonged. As I continued to climb, I noticed my confidence growing both on and off the wall.
Climbing became more than just a physical outlet; it was a way to challenge my own mind and prove to myself that I was capable winning battles against myself. Spoiler alert: climbing didn’t cure my anxiety, and that’s okay. It’s not meant to be cured. But having a supportive community and a passion that pushes me out of my comfort zone has been instrumental in my mental health journey. Today, I can confidently say that the climbing community is my #1 support system. It's nearly impossible for me to imagine where I'd be without this sport.
If you're struggling with anxiety, remember that you're not alone. While climbing may not be the solution for everyone, I encourage you to find an activity or community that makes you feel supported, challenged, and empowered. It could be anything that brings you joy and helps you grow (yoga, fitness, art - you name it).
For me, that was climbing. If you're interested in giving it a try, know that there's a welcoming community waiting for you at Movement Gyms. Regardless of your skill level or background, there's a place for you here. You might just find a new sense of confidence along the way.
The hardest part is putting yourself out there! All Movement locations host monthly events + meet-ups that are great for building a support system. Whether you’re attending a Beginner Meet-up by yourself or taking your friends to a Craft Night at the gym, the climbing community is all about finding ways to connect with others.
