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Counsellor's Comment

Taking a Look at Worry

Worry is thinking about something that has happened, or will happen, in an obsessive way. Going over something again and again and asking, "What will I do?  What should I have done?"

Worry has been part of the human condition for a long, long time. Did our Cro-Magnon ancestors worry about completing a successful mastodon hunt? Did ancient Egyptions worry about crop failure in a dry year? Probaby they did. It is likely that once humans remembered yesterday and anticipated tomorrow, worry became a part of life.

Worry is somewhere between concern and anxiety.  Worry is more a mental form whereas anxiety often affects our stomach and our breathing.

Worry is repetitive thinking about things in unproductive ways. Worry can lead to depression, aggression, shame, shyness, or panic.  

Worry can also provide motivation to take necessary action or to make necessary change. Worry reminds you that you have a choice.  Worry is an early warning sign of depression or some other physical or emotional problem. If you are experiencing ongoing worry, or anxiety, seek support in order to clarify the issue, and work towards solutions.

Mrs McEwen