I had counselling session about 16 years ago. I was starting to feel myself unravel a bit this winter, and I realized that I needed to revisit what I had learned, or find new solutions for my stressors, in order to manage my anxiety. My stressors in my angsty mid 20’s were significantly different that my stressors now as a parent.
I’m still using this notebook. I flip through and read the advice pages, and re read the breakdown of BCT and the 12 types of distortive thinking. Keeping these fresh in my mind helps me assess thoughts when they pop up that I know aren’t quite right, or are raising my anxiety which would normally lead to anger.
The Journalling aspect was new to me. Having never journaled, I was a little apprehensive. However, following the template made it easy and comfortable to do. Once the event or the thought pattern was written down, it was easy to think about it clearly and see what was going on.
I find this book to be very helpful as I work through moments. Even though its a book, I feel like the book is supportive. It speaks to letting anxiety slip ups happen, and that it’s part of the journey. I don’t feel like giving up when my anger takes hold, I feel like opening the book some more and keep going.
One of the most helpful lines for me that I’ve come across is “catch it, check it, change it”. This little mantra helps me adjust my thinking in the moment, rather than letting it spin me.
Hi Tim,
It is so wonderful to hear the impact our Anti-Anxiety notebook has had in your journey. We are proud of you for recognizing your patterns and delving into journaling!
Catch it, check it, change it is definitely a most helpful motto to live by.
We hope you continue learning and benefitting from our notebooks, we are thankful for your transparency and sharing your story. You are brave!
Proud of you,
The Therapy Notebooks Team