How to tackle worry that's out of control
Tame the Worry Monster: How to Treat Worry and Anxiety
Do you worry about things that might happen, even though you know they probably won't? Or are you always on edge, feeling the need to prepare for the worst? Is it hard to get concerns off your mind?
If so, you may be suffering from chronic or generalised worry. The good news is you can learn to eat worries and anxiety, improving your quality of life.
What Causes Worry and Anxiety?
Worry and anxiety are normal human emotions. We all feel them from time to time in response to certain events or situations. However, when these emotions become excessive, intrusive, and difficult to control, they are a real problem.
There is no single cause of chronic worry. Instead, it is usually the result of physical, psychological, and social factors. For example, someone may be more likely to develop an anxiety disorder if they have experienced stressful life events, are single, have a family history of mental illness, and have limited economic resources (1).
Treatment for Worry and Anxiety
Fortunately, effective treatments are available for chronic worry and generalised anxiety disorder. The first step is to see a mental health professional for an evaluation. They can rule out other potential causes of your symptoms and make a diagnosis. This person can also check for other problems, such as low mood. An intervention place can then be developed once you have been assessed.
Forget using a soft toy, cuddly monster, or imaginary worry eaters. There are effective, proven ways to tackle worry.
The most common psychological treatment for anxiety disorders is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is a form of talk therapy. It helps people change anxiety-causing thought patterns and behaviours. CBT typically involves weekly sessions with a therapist for around 8-12 appointments. However, session frequency and number vary between people. Client and practitioner tend to meet less often as progress is made.
In addition to CBT, your treatment plan might include medication. Several different types of medication can be effective in treating anxiety disorders. Your mental health professional will work with you to find the right medication for your specific needs.
Summary
You are not alone if you struggle with chronic worry. Millions of people suffer from these conditions. However, you can learn management strategies and improve your quality of life with proper treatment. Don't hesitate to seek help if you're overwhelmed by worry or anxiety.
Further reading:
How to recognise and treat social anxiety
Information about panic attacks
Understand anxiety during bereavement
How to help someone with anxiety
We are Coaching & Clinical Psychologists with extensive experience helping people conquer anxiety and various other issues at home and in the workplace. Read more about our work, watch practical skills videos or browse other articles. Get in touch anytime.
References
(1) Moreno-Peral, P., Conejo-Cerón, S., Motrico, E., Rodríguez-Morejón, A., Fernández, A., García-Campayo, J., Roca, M., Serrano-Blanco, A., Rubio-Valera, M., & Bellón, J. Á. (2014). Risk factors for the onset of panic and generalised anxiety disorders in the general adult population: a systematic review of cohort studies. Journal of affective disorders, 168, 337–348. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2014.06.021