Why It’s Not Just You - The Hidden Social Forces Driving Anxiety with Claudette Foley (Part 1)

Welcome to Part 1 of Dr. Jodi Richardson’s powerful conversation with community psychologist Claudette Foley, who brings more than 35 years of expertise across psychology, education, sociology, neuroscience and wellness.

In this episode, we zoom out from the individual experience of anxiety and explore the larger social, cultural and environmental forces that impact how we feel—often without us even realising. If you’ve ever asked yourself “Why am I like this?” or felt alone in your struggles, this conversation is a must-listen.

Key Topics Covered

• Why anxiety isn’t always about what’s “wrong” with you

• How housing, financial pressure, and social support impact mental health

• Social anxiety: what it really is and why it’s rising in young people

• The emotional toll of extroverted cultures on introverted bodies

• Understanding your “social battery” and recognising what drains or recharges you

• Cultural mismatches: what happens when your temperament doesn’t fit your surroundings

• Why some people feel out of place in group settings (and how to change that)

• Practical tools to feel more connected without pretending to be someone you're not

• Recognising unhelpful communication styles (like “dump and go” or “whiteboard writers”)

• Building belonging without masking your personality

Claudette also shares insights from her work with the World Health Organization and ACT pioneer Dr Russ Harris, offering a compassionate, big-picture view of anxiety that will help you feel less alone—and more empowered.

This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Stay tuned for next week’s continuation of this deeply validating and eye-opening discussion.

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