What Type of Worry is This?

doodlesshort essays
Written By Martine Ellis
A minimalist drawing of a computer pop-up window with the question: “What type of worry is this?” and two buttons below it labelled “Hypothetical” and “Practical.” The name “Martine Ellis” is in the corner.

Do you ever feel like your brain is stuck in a worry loop?

I learned this strategy in CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) a few years ago. Honestly, CBT didn’t work that well for me, but this technique stuck.

When I feel stressed, I pause and ask myself: "What type of worry is this: hypothetical or practical?"

In other words, can I take action on this, or am I getting lost in "what ifs"? If it’s practical, I'll figure out a solution. If it’s hypothetical, I try to let it go.

I don't always remember the strategy when facing a serious worry, but it helps when I do.

What strategies do you use to manage worry?

Martine Ellis
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