John Tsilimparis: How to Handle Grief and Anxiety - Part 2

Depression, anxiety, and addiction can all be linked back to unresolved grief. This can make us feel hopeless. Lisa continues the conversation today with psychotherapist and author John Tsilimparis who explains how to not get stuck in these feelings. We all go through trying times, and he shares ways to handle it. John talks about underlying loss and helps people convert those feelings. Grief is like a stream, and we can move through it. John also discusses why we worry. This can be an addiction as well. John tries to help people remember that things can be good. If we can accept that worry is a protective mechanism, we can study it. It can serve a purpose. We can learn to adapt. He asks us to focus on what is important to us and what we have control over. We have to look for those things, whether it's work, school, family, friends, etc. He talks about how people were so affected by the pandemic, because of the constant uncertainty. He suggests having a daily practice, which includes mindfulness and meditation. Even just 5 to 10 minutes will help and bring you back to your center. He also highly suggests that we reduce screen time. Excessive time on our phones and in front of a computer can affect our sleep and stress. It's important to get outside and spend a few minutes in nature. This can be as easy as just stepping outside and looking at the sun. John Tsilimparis is a distinguished psychotherapist, mental health consultant, podcast host, and former adjunct professor at Pepperdine University and UCLA Extension. He is the author of "The Magic in the Tragic: Rewriting the Script on Grief and Finding Happiness in Our Darkest Days" and "Retrain Your Anxious Brain." This is Part 2 of the interview. Info: johntsilimparis.com.