The Worry Book

by Will Van Der Hart

Statistically, life has never been safer. Yet worry has reached epidemic proportions. So what has gone wrong? Many Christians are suffering in silence, unsure if psychological solutions are appropriate for them, or if biblical teaching can lead them to fr

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Self Help

190 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2011

About the author

Rev Will Van Der Hart was educated at Cambridge and later Oxford University where he studied both education and theology. Will is a founding director of 'Mind and Soul' a mental and emotional health think tank with an international reach. Alongside his colleague Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Rob Waller, Will has written The The Perfectionism Book: Walking the Path to Freedom, The Guilt Book, The Worry Book 'The Mind and Soul Course', The Stuff of Life . Alongside his wife Lucinda Van Der Hart, Will has also written, 'The Family Time New Parent Course' and The Pregnancy Book. Will is Pastoral Chaplain at HTB London, he has two children, enjoys running, surfing and being creative.

Reviews

[Bethan Funning · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was great. I was nervous about a Christian ‘self-help’ book on anxiety. But I really enjoyed the tone, the practicality of the exercises and how it brought in the Gospel and the Bible. I’ll be rereading and using some of the techniques for sure. I would recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about worry and anxiety, or to anyone who feels like worry is a consistent part of their lives. x

[Ying · Rating 4 out of 5]

could be more condense. But very clear and useful.

[Emily Crutchley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Theology and psychology join forces to tackle the problem of worry in a hybrid book/workbook from two authors with personal, pastoral and professional experience.

At its core, this book requires our hard work to discern worry themes and the beliefs that mean we've kept choosing worry as our response. An alternative is possible: we're taught and given practice using strategies that challenge those beliefs and tolerate a level of uncertainty. Worthwhile hard work but I heartily recommend!!!

[Rachel Quinlan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Realistic, thought provoking and contains workable practical methods to help put worries in to perspective.

[Rob Waller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like The Worry Book for two reasons: first, it will help life's worriers to worry less; and secondly, I know that vulnerable people are in safe hands with the authors. This book strikes a rare balance in its presentation of liberating truth. It is both scientifically informed and theologically sound; it is both realistic and at the same time faith promoting. The Worry Book is in effect a practical commentary on the greatest advice ever given on worry – Jesus’ statement: ‘Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own’ (Matthew 6:34).
Peter Anderson, Lead Pastor of Destiny Church Edinburgh

Based on cognitive-behaviour therapy principles and a scientific understanding of worry, the psychology throughout the book is sound. For those who seek guidance and inspiration in the Bible, the authors offer a thoughtful way of approaching verses that may be confusing for those who are prone to worry. The balance between reflection and action is nicely struck, and with worksheets that link the two together, people can plan what to do and how to go about doing it. Finally, the book is written from a very personal perspective, showing real insight into the world of the worrier, and, most importantly, it is written with compassion.
Professor Mark Freeston, Professor of Clinical Psychology at Newcastle University, UK; researcher, author and trainer on CBT for anxiety disorders

This easy-to-read mix of pastoral counsel, biblical exposition, personal experience, plentiful anecdotes and practical exercises will help many anxious Christians to recognize and break free from the 'worry rules' that prevent them from enjoying the perfect love that overcomes all fear.
Dr Trevor Stammers, former GP and Chair of Christian Medical Fellowship 2007–2010

[Barbara Ab · Rating 3 out of 5]

Strong religious background (the author is a priest) but good tips – if you tend to worry too much - and good structure.