There are times that we encounter fearful thoughts that can be
difficult to manage. For some people, the more they try to get rid
of the thoughts, the stronger the thoughts become and the more
difficult they become to manage. As a result, here is a brief list
of techniques that a person can use to help manage their fearful and
obsessive thoughts and anxieties.

The first thing a person must do is not to dwell or focus on the
fear provoking thought when it comes. The more a person tries to
reason out the thought or focus on the fear behind the thought, the
stronger the thought becomes. The next time you encounter an
obsessive thought, get into the practice of not dwelling on it.

From my interviews with various psychologists, I was told that a
person should visualize a red stop sign in their mind when they
encounter a fear provoking thought. When the negative thought comes,
a person should think of a red stop sign which serves as a reminder
to stop focusing on that thought and to think of something else. A
person can then try to think of something positive to replace the
negative thought.

A person should keep a small notebook of positive statements that
makes them feel good. Whenever they come across a positive and
uplifting verse that makes them feel good, write it down in a small
notebook. A person can then carry this notebook around in their
pocket and whenever they feel anxious, they can read their notebook.

Our fearful thoughts can sometimes produce a lot of anxiety. When
this happens, a person should take a deep breathe and try to find
something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off of the
problem. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read
the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh
perspective on things.

Although I am a Layman and not a professional, I have interviewed
many counselors and I learned that there are many ways to deal with
these kinds of thoughts. From my interviews, I've learned that
usually it is the fear behind the thought that gets us worked up.
When dealing with fearful and obsessive thoughts, do not dwell on
the thought.

BIOGRAPHY:

Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear
Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" - an easy
to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are
effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional
information go to:
http://www.trebleheartbooks.com/mvStanPopovich.html
For free articles on managing fear please go to:
http://www.managingfear.com/