Letting Go of Worries and Refocusing Attention
This worksheet is designed to support the delivery of “worry time”. It explains the benefits of postponing worries and offers practical strategies that young people can use immediately to refocus and stay present.
References and Further Reading
- Dippel, A., Brosschot, J.F. and Verkuil, B. (2023) ‘Effects of worry postponement on daily worry: A meta-analysis’, International Journal of Cognitive Therapy, 17(1), pp. 160–178. doi:10.1007/s41811-023-00193-x.
- Jellesmaa, F.B., Verkuilc, B. & Brosschot, J.F. (2009) Postponing worrisome thoughts in children: The effects of a postponement intervention on perseverative thoughts, emotions and somatic complaints. Social Science and Medicine. Vol. 69. p. 278-284.
- Dugas, M., & Robichaud, M. (2007) Cognitive-behavioural treatment for generalized anxiety disorder. New York. Routledge.
- Brown KW, Ryan RM (2003) ‘The benefits of being present: mindfulness and its role in psychological well-being’ Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 84: 822–848.
- Zhou, X.et al. (2020) ‘Effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction on anxiety symptoms in young people: A systematic review and meta-analysis’, Psychiatry Research, 289, p. 113002. doi:10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113002.