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Distraction
Music is the best way of taking my mind off things. Sometimes I need it to be loud and angry, other times chilled out - I've different playlists for different moods
Are you looking for some ideas - click here to jump straight there
Why can it help?
Worrying can be something that is hard to stop. When you're anxious your brain can be super active and you might find yourself going over and over the things that are stressing you out. You might even find yourself worrying about how much you are worrying!
Finding ways of distracting yourself is a really good way to break this cycle. It can help you to feel more in control, giving you the headspace to deal with the things that you're worrying about.
How can I do it?
Most of already have ways of taking our mind off the things that are bugging us. We might watch TV when we've had a bad day, or try to lose ourselves in a computer game. So, if you want to build up a toolbox of distraction strategies you don't have to start from scratch.
The first step is to work out what you're already doing that works well for you. You can ask yourself: What do I like to do? When was the last time I lost track of time when doing something? If you can't think of anything, it can help to talk it over with someone who knows you well. They might have some good ideas too.
Use this, and the suggestions below, to make a list of things to try next time you're struggling to take your mind off whatever's worrying you. Writing it down can help, especially if you get really stressed out and can't think clearly.
Distraction's a really good start, but it's best used with other things. Check out the chilling out section too (we've found it really helps when the anxiety is bad).
Some ideas
Being active - getting up and doing something
- Going for a walk
- Exercising/playing sport
- Doing some cooking
- Playing music or singing
- Juggling
- Tidying or cleaning
- Dancing
Keeping your brain busy
- Watching some TV , a video or go to the cinema
- Doing puzzles or playing a game
- Painting or drawing something
- Playing computer games
- Doing some reading or creative writing
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