WHY do we worry even though we KNOW it does nothing?

Question

There's NO POINT in worrying but alot of us do it anyhow! What is up with that? I worry 24/7, I know it doesn't resolve anything but my brain is too powerful to stop! What can I do to distract my worrying?

Thank You.

Answer 1

Safia I'm am very much like you. i worry for no reason at all. I've tried to figure out why I behave like this.. I think it is a false sense of security that worrying gives us. I mean I worry because unconsciously I feel that worrying about something will make sure that it will be dealt with.

In reality more often that not the anxiety and the stress that comes with it affects my performance , productivity and happiness in general.

You must have a look at this artice I've come across:

http://www.mindtools.com/stress/UnderstandStress/StressPerformance.htm

Answer 2

I think worrying is a way of self protection. Yeah, that sounds backwards, but if you think about it, when you worry, you're thinking about the worst possible scenario, right? So, that way, if that scenario does in fact come true, then you're already semi-prepared. The best way to not worry is to take a step back and remind yourself that you may not have full control (if any) over the situation and you have to let it run its course (whatever that may be). It's a mind over matter thing.

And, I know this is all easier said than done but it does work. If all else fails, I would go to someone with professional experience (like a therapist) who may be able to help you work through it.

Good luck!!

Answer 3

Worrying can be a learned behavior - something we begin to observe and mimick at an early age without even realizing we're doing it. My Grandmother used to embroider this suggestion on pillows, "Dont just sit there - Worry!" If we don't worry about things then we may feel guilty - as if we are seeming not to care.

In defense of this oft-times bad habit, I believe there is a productive form of 'worrying,' when a person doesn't just sit there but seeks answers or researches a problem - coming up with possible options or solutions. The only bad side to this type of worrying might be when it's used to render unsolicited advice or to prove one's point (for egotistical gain).
You might ask yourself when you catch your mind in worry-mode, if this is something you can render a positive note to (either directly or indirectly). If not, let it go (with well-wishes only) to the object of your worry.

Answer 4

I too am a constant worrier. The way I rationalize this is by thinking if I keep brainstorming ideas of what I am worried about, maybe I will come up with the solution to one of my problems and at least that will be one less thing I have to worry about. It's a vicious cycle and I wish you the best of luck.

Answer 5

To reduce your worrying, engage your brain in knowing the problem inside out by reading, speaking to people, attending appropriate courses, praying etc. DO something about it.

Answer 6

human nature, you can make your mind stop all the worrying with a different attitude,,,

no one said growing up and old would be easy so take life one step and one day at a time

A fellow I worked with once said ( he was older) that growing old isnt for wimps

Answer 7

Because we are human. I do it all the time,about most things. I can't turn my brain off either. But my meds help. Do something you enjoy.That will help. Or call a friend.

Answer 8

Some of us are just worry warts.
Sometimes hobbies or puzzles take our mind off it for a while.

Answer 9

We believe it's attacking our security.