How to Stop Obsessive WorryObsessive worry is like a negative spiral- the longer you spend time with it, the deeper you get! It takes a deliberate act of will to stop it. Although deliberately choosing to break out of obsessive worry may be difficult at first, with practice, it will get easier.
1. Do physical exercise: dancing, walking, jogging, riding a bike, swimming, heavy housework, pounding a pillow, lifting weights, gardening, etc.
2. Do progressive muscle relaxation and deep breathing exercises.
3. Use evocative music to release repressed feelings. Feelings such as sadness or anger may be driving the obsessive worry.
4. Talk to someone- it's better if it is about something other than the worry.
5. Use visual distractions, such as TV, movies, video games, computer, reading, going to a museum, looking at flowers, sunset, stars, etc.
6. Use sensory-motor distractions, like arts and crafts, repairing something, sewing, painting, gardening, etc.
7. Find an alternative positive obsession, such as taking a course, working for environmental causes or animal rights, going fishing, sports, crossword puzzles, collecting, etc.
8. Practice positive affirmations: "Let go and let God" or "Let it go", These are just thoughts- they are fading away", and "I'm whole, relaxed and free of worry". Make up your own!
