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Worry generally doesn’t contain itself.

It has a way of taking on a life of its own and following us around all day.

Happy woman on the beach

Yes, constant worrying can lead to headaches, depression, fatigue, and even gastrointestinal issues.

This is why health professionals recommend “worry time.”

It could last 10 minutes, 15 minutes, or even 30.

Worried woman

That depends on you, but the idea is to not let anxious thoughts ruin your entire day.

Think about the last time you woke up in the morning and checked your phone.

Remember that text message or email that planted a seed of worry in your head?

How did that day go for you?

Did you carry the worry in the back of your mind for the rest of the day?

Did it pile on or evolve into something bigger because you simply didn’t let it go?

Here’s what it can do for you.

Contrary to what you may think, worrying alone doesn’t accomplish anything.

It’s what you do with that worry that matters.

“Worry time” could actually help you do something about the things that are bothering you.

If it isn’t, move the item to your list for tomorrow.

For particularly anxious people, “worry time” is an exercise in disciplining their thoughts.

Some might recommend afternoons while others may say early evenings.

Whatever you do, avoid mornings and the time right before bed.

Setting a timer 10 or 15 minutes when you reach “worry time” is also crucial.

Once you’re done, engage in an activity that makes you happy.

Whenever an anxious thought enters your mind, jot it down.

Then turn your thoughts toward something happier or productive that needs your attention in the moment.