Three-Step Plan to Overcome Worry

Ombuds regularly work with visitors worried about how to resolve their conflict. It turns out, the basic ombuds approach is consistent with standard advice for worriers in general. According to Dr. Edward Hallowell, author of Worry: Hope and Help for a Common Condition, a simple three-step plan will help 95 percent of people overcome their worries.

1. Never worry alone. Talk to somebody about your worries.
2. Get the facts, because usually toxic worry is based on wrong information or lack of information.
3. Make a plan. Take an active, constructive step.

(Worry was the theme of this week's 20/20 on ABC.)