Interrupting the Spiral: Anxiety, Depression & Taking Back Control with Zulma Williams

The High-Functioning Disaster

In this second part of my conversation with Zulma Williams — The Swearing Therapist — we dig into what anxiety and depression really look like in daily life, and what it takes to stop the spiral before it takes over.

Zulma breaks down simple grounding techniques, explains why therapy is an act of strength, and shares why we need to stop glorifying “doing it alone.”

We talk about becoming the CEO of your own life, the difference between managing vs. healing emotions, and why discipline—not motivation—creates real change.

Expect laughter, honesty, and plenty of four-letter words that somehow make it all feel a little lighter.

✨ Content Note: This episode includes adult language and candid discussion of topics such as abuse, depression, cancer, and suicidal thoughts. Listener discretion is advised, and please take care of yourself while listening.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone. In the U.S., you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.

Key Takeaways

• 🧠 Grounding breaks the anxiety spiral by anchoring the brain in the present.
• 💬 Therapy isn’t weakness — it’s a form of emotional intelligence.
• ⚖️ Healing means doing the deeper work, not just managing symptoms.
• 🙌 You are the CEO of your own life. Start acting like it.
• 💪 Discipline outlasts motivation every single time.

Connect:

Where to find Zulma:

• Website: https://www.dragonflytherapyservices.net/
• Follow The Swearing Therapist and Dragonfly Therapy:
• 📱Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/theswearingtherapist]
• 📺YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@theswearingtherapist]
• 📺TikTok: [https://www.tiktok.com/@soarwithtapping]
• 📱Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/DragonflyTSLV]
• 📱LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulma-williams-ab7609214]

✨ Connect with The High-Functioning Disaster:

• 🎙 Guest inquiries: bookings [at] holderhausmedia [dot] com
• 📬 Get in touch: heythere [at] holderhausmedia [dot] com
• 🎙 More episodes & info: [https://the-high-functioning-disaster.captivate.fm/]
• 🎙 Discover more podcasts by Holder Haus Media: [https://holder-haus-media.captivate.fm/]
• 📱 Follow on IG: @thehighfunctioningdisaster [https://instagram.com/thehighfunctioningdisaster]
• 📺 Watch on YouTube: Uploads coming soon! [https://www.youtube.com/@HolderHausMedia]
• 💜 When I’m not podcasting, I’m also a Scentsy Consultant of 10+ years. If you’re into fragrance and cozy vibes, you can find my shop here: [https://sachasmells.com]

Keywords

Zulma Williams, The Swearing Therapist, anxiety, depression, therapy stigma, grounding techniques, mental health, emotional healing, resilience, motivation vs discipline, trauma recovery, authentic therapy

🎧 Next Episode: In Part 3, Zulma shares how a setback at work became the push to build her own practice — and why she refuses to apologize for living on her own terms.

We’ll also dive into how to reframe failure, set boundaries, and stop believing every thought you think.

👉 Subscribe now so you don’t miss it.