Ben Eckstein, LCSW, author of 'Worrying is Optional,' discusses worry, distinguishing between worry and worrying, breaking the cycle of anxiety, overcoming the inevitability of worrying, exploring mindfulness, self-compassion, and growth mindset in overcoming worry, and strategies to manage worry.
Recognizing the difference between worry and worrying is vital for managing anxious thoughts effectively.
Individuals can regain control over their worrying by understanding its voluntary nature and practicing intentional actions.
Increasing mindfulness and self-awareness aids in identifying worry triggers, facilitating the implementation of targeted coping strategies.
Deep dives
Understanding the Difference Between Worry and Worrying
Worry and worrying are distinct concepts, with worry being an initial thought or concern, while worrying involves actively engaging with that thought. Worry, such as concerns over significant matters, can have value, but worrying as a prolonged, intentional process may lead to anxiety. Recognizing this difference is crucial in developing a more intentional approach to managing anxious thoughts.
Taking Control of Worry through Intentionality
Challenging the belief that worrying is inevitable, individuals can learn to control their worrying by understanding its voluntary nature. By acknowledging automatic responses do not equate to impossibility of change, individuals can focus on intentional actions to shift their worrying patterns. Building awareness and practicing deliberate responses can help individuals take control of their worrisome thoughts.
Developing Self-Awareness to Address Worry
Increasing mindfulness and self-awareness can aid in identifying triggers and patterns of worry. By slowing down and recognizing moments of worry, individuals can implement targeted strategies, such as utilizing intentional time periods for practice. Self-awareness facilitates differentiation between automatic thoughts and intentional worrying, laying the foundation for more effective coping mechanisms.
Distinguishing Helpful from Unhelpful Worry
Discerning between helpful and unhelpful worry involves recognizing the impact of worry on decision-making and future outcomes. While some worry can be beneficial for problem-solving and planning, excessive and uncontrollable worrying tends to lead to negative outcomes. It is essential to shift focus towards constructive actions rather than repetitive, unproductive worries.
Embracing Growth Mindset and Acceptance in Managing Worry
Adopting a growth mindset allows individuals to view worry as an opportunity for learning and growth, rather than a reflection of inadequacy. Accepting uncertainty and imperfection can help in navigating worry more effectively. By developing patience, persistence, and self-compassion, individuals can cultivate a healthier relationship with their worries and implement actionable steps towards managing them.
Ben Eckstein, LCSW, author of Worrying is Optional, joins us to discuss worry. Ben is owner and director of Bull City Anxiety & OCD Treatment Center in Durham, NC. Eckstein was trained at McLean Hospital’s OCD Institute, and has been specializing in the treatment of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) for more than a decade. He serves on the board of directors for OCD North Carolina, and offers training, workshops, and speaking engagements in addition to his clinical work.
Visit our website at www.newharbinger.com and use coupon code 'Podcast25' to receive 25% off your entire order.
