Finding strength in the struggle: How “Anxiety Josh” created a mental health movement
Bestselling author and therapist Joshua Fletcher - widely recognised online as “Anxiety Josh” - has spoken openly about the role resilience and community support played in his path from severe anxiety to becoming one of the UK’s most prominent mental health communicators.
Josh, who completed a PG Cert in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at ϳԹ, describes his journey as anything but straightforward. “Life hasn’t exactly been a straight line for me,” he said. “There was a time when I developed a severe anxiety disorder, was diagnosed with OCD, and genuinely couldn’t leave the house.”
Turning hard moments into help for millions
Yet Josh credits much of his recovery to the people who stood beside him when he felt at his lowest. Their support enabled him not only to recover but to use his experiences for good. I worked through it, and over time, I used that experience as inspiration. It became the driving force behind my passion for psychology,” he said.
He went on to develop skills in multiple therapeutic approaches. “I trained in multiple modalities of therapy, including humanistic and cognitive behavioural therapy, and went on to become a therapist.”
Building a community through honesty and insight
Josh has written several bestselling books, including How Does That Make You Feel? which was an Audible bestseller and was widely praised by The Guardian, The Times and Sky News.
His expertise and relatable approach have garnered him a substantial following on social media, particularly on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, where he has amassed over 300,000 followers.
“I’m lucky to have built a large community online where I can share my journey and knowledge, blending professional insights with personal stories and a bit of realness,” he said.
In addition to his online presence, Josh has launched a new podcast called Disordered, which has already gained an impressive 1 Million+ downloads.
A return to ϳԹ
In 2024 Josh had a full circle moment when he returned to ϳԹ to give an alumni speech to those graduating that year. Speaking to students who were about to embark on the next phase of their life, one of his most powerful reflections was on endurance and he reminded them of their inherent strength.
“Life may throw things at you, but your ability to adapt, grow, and persevere is something you can always rely on,” he said. “If you struggle with self-doubt, always remember that you have tolerated everything life has thrown at you up until this very moment.”
Learn more about Josh:
Josh studied a PG Cert in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). The ϳԹ’s Heath and Society Post graduate and counselling courses are amongst the most popular on offer in the UK as well as being professionally recognised.
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