Worried about how much you worry?

“Worry is like a rocking chair: It gives you something to do, but it doesn't get you anywhere.”

Erma Bombeck

If you suffer from chronic anxiety and worry, you’re in good company: millions of people are members of the “trying to control the uncontrollable” club. Worrying about something may give you a false sense of security, but instead of bringing you peace of mind, it actually takes a toll on your life. Worrying is a bad mental habit, but fortunately, you can learn to break it. Start by asking yourself if your worries are productive or unproductive. Does your worrying spur you to take action and solve real problems in the here-and-now? Or are you spinning your wheels, worrying over hypothetical what-ifs? If you find yourself in the latter camp, it’s time to reassess what good all your agonizing is really doing.

For more tips and advice on how to break the worry habit, including why scheduling worrying into your day can help, see How to Stop Worrying: Self-Help Strategies for Anxiety Relief.

Healthy fast food: The best choices aren’t always a no brainer

Think Subway is healthier than McDonalds? Think again. The truth is, there are healthy and unhealthy choices at both fast food joints. Despite Subway ads touting spokesman Jarrod’s impressive weight loss, not all of the chain’s sandwiches are diet friendly. And believing otherwise can unwittingly sabotage your healthy eating efforts.

A recent study shows that people drastically underestimate the calories they’re eating when the fast food restaurant claims to be healthy. When study participants compared fast food choices, they perceived Subway sandwiches to be significantly lower in calories than McDonald’s meals, even when the calories were identical. This misperception increases the chances of overeating for Subway diners. Believing that their “virtuous” entrée choice merits a reward, they are much more likely to order higher calorie side dishes.

To get the real scoop on how to eat healthy when eating out, read Healthy Fast Food: Healthy Choices at Fast Food Restaurants.

Looking for a way to stop smoking that works for you?

Look no further: Quit Smoking Your Way: Creating a Personal Smoking Cessation Plan has innovative ideas on how to reach your goal of becoming a non-smoker.

It is possible to successfully quit smoking when you know what to expect, are motivated, have social support, and create a personal game plan.  Learn how to replace your smoking habits with healthier behaviors, manage your cravings, and join the millions of people who have kicked the habit for good!

Overcoming an eating disorder: Start by seeking support

Recovering from an eating disorder isn’t easy, especially if you try to tackle it alone. Dealing with your food, weight, and body image issues takes motivation, courage, and commitment to change. Having people you can count on for encouragement and support can get you through even the toughest of times, so reach out for help—even if it’s scary or embarrassing. Start by telling one trusted person what you’re going through. If you don’t know what to say, focus on the following:

• What thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are involved in your eating disorder?
• How has the eating disorder affected you physically and emotionally?
• Are you ready to stop the disordered eating behaviors?
• How can your loved ones best support you?

For more recovery advice, see Eating Disorder Treatment and Recovery: Help for Anorexia and Bulimia.

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