Catastrophisers rush to external sources to calm themselves down: matching symptoms online to obtain a diagnosis and treatment options; asking a professional to tell them that they will survive etc. Once they are reassured, they feel better – in psychological jargon, they have “rewarded” this seeking behaviour.But this way to alleviate anxiety offers only temporary relief.

External seeking behaviour

They tend to be fairly anxious people and on hearing uncertain news, they imagine the worst possible outcome. If a catastrophiser is told something inconclusive, they look for a way to feel in control again immediately. They learn to choose the worst possible outcome because it allows for the greatest sense of relief when they are reassured.

Catastrophisers

<ul><li>Look for enjoyable ways to challenge yourself and use your energy more positively;</li><li>Take control. Establish a regular “worry time”;</li><li>Ask yourself what you would advise your best friend to do about each concern, and take that action;</li><li>Learn to self-soothe. </li></ul>

How to stop catastrophising

A clinical psychologist suggests a three-pronged plan for tackling anxiety and approaching each day logically and positively

Catastrophisers

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