[Zen888]

Hi Everyone

How do you stop racing negative thoughts? I have tried distracting myself by doing other things to keep me busy...but I'd like to have a moment where I can just relax and not have my mind wonder into a negative self-tormenting frame of mind.

[Perna]

I either use "logic" or humor. What kind of race is it, bicycle? Can you see the little thoughts in their tight spandex racing pants and pointy bike helmets? Where are they going? What will they win if they're first?

Confronting them rather than distracting/running from them works sometimes. Why isn't anyone else worried about what you're worried about; is the rest of the world "crazy" and you the only sane one who knows enough to worry or is the sky not really falling? If something is in the "future" (having enough money at the end of the month to pay the rent for example) then there's no point in worrying about it now, it hasn't happened yet and you can't tell the future, all you can do is keep working and doing the best you can. If you're trying to read someone else's mind ("They might not/probably don't like me") tell your mind to mind it's own business, you're trying predict someone else's response and that's not your mind's job.

Work at "fixing" whatever is truly wrong. If something is in the past, not much you can do about it; a mistake made yesterday can only be apologized for and "fixed." If you're afraid of something in the future; being alone or someone breaking into your house or hurting you then add locks or call a friend to call you or keep the lights on/stay up, whatever makes it easier for you in real time (but not ahead -- don't worry about tonight until tonight).

[pegasus]

Hello Pilatus,

A few things I use>>>>>>>>>>>>

Positive self-talk.

Distractions such as crosswords, reading and listening to music.

Slowing the breathing down, cup hands over mouth and breath steadily for at least ten minutes.

Relaxation, buy a CD, tape and relax everyday at a set time.

Physical exercise, going for a walk and focusing on what is around you.

Hope some of these might help you.

Take care.

[lawnspic]

It seems that every remedy seems to need some internal convincing, in the end thats what it comes down to. So yes positive talk is helpful and exercise is a great benefit, but were talking about now. Work on the positive aspect and self assurance " letting go is key". Pilatus i know you have been here a while, and i dont know you r type of anxiety because im new so please refresh me if you want. I can help to some degree because my life changed in 1991 and will never feel sory for my self because of it. Its ok to be aggresive in fighting anxiety but not so much when you do it and inside your scared(never works) . Its a blend of determination and riding out certain demons we all have inside. Be well