2026 · 05. February 2026

Always on edge even when things are fine? Chronic worriers often stay tense to avoid emotional shocks, a pattern called contrast avoidance. My latest column explores recent research showing that practising simple savouring techniques – pausing, noticing, and extending positive moments – can help break the cycle, reduce anxiety, and make calm feel safe.

2022 · 11. August 2022

Worrying about a problem helps us to solve a problem – doesn’t it? Well, no. Worrying and problem-solving are very different things. Indeed, research shows worrying actually makes us less likely, not more likely, to solve our problems. And yet, worry can feel productive. What’s going on? Let's take a closer look.

2021 · 07. October 2021

Relaxation is good for all of us. If you’re a worrier, however, you may well find that you actively resist relaxation, instead choosing to continue worrying. Why? My latest column explores research showing that worriers don’t like negative emotional contrasts – for example, when you suddenly go from feeling relaxed or upbeat to feeling stressed or fearful. To avoid this negative emotional shift, you stay on guard and continue to worry.