Preocupación: esperanza y ayuda para una condición común

About the book

Worry: Hope and Help for a Common Condition is a work by the renowned psychiatrist Edward M. Hallowell, M.D., which addresses worry from a neuropsychological perspective. Originally published in 1997, this book remains a valuable resource for its balanced approach between pharmacological treatment and non-medicinal strategies for managing anxiety in its various forms. Hallowell explores the neurological bases of worry and offers practical tools to understand and manage this common emotional state. Throughout its pages, he combines illustrative clinical cases with accessible explanations, making it a read for both professionals and people seeking personal help. This book is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice.

Who is this book for?

This book is aimed at students and professionals in neuropsychology, clinical psychology, and psychiatry who wish to delve deeper into the study of anxiety from a neuropsychological perspective. It is also useful for people experiencing excessive worry or anxiety disorders, as well as their family and friends. Readers will find a practical and hopeful approach, supported by the author's clinical experience. However, it is recommended to supplement its reading with the guidance of a mental health professional.

What you will find in this book

• Neuropsychological basis of worry: Clear explanations of how the brain processes anxiety and why some people are more prone to worry.
• Real clinical cases: Detailed examples of patients illustrating different manifestations of worry, from panic attacks to generalized anxiety disorder.
• Treatment strategies: A balanced analysis of pharmacological options (including current and past medications) and non-pharmacological therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, meditation, and exercise.
• Practical tips: Techniques to reduce worry in daily life, improve sleep, and strengthen emotional resilience.
• Medication update: Although the book mentions some older antidepressants, it also covers the most commonly used ones today, offering a useful overview.

About the author

Edward M. Hallowell, M.D., is an internationally recognized psychiatrist and author. A graduate of Harvard Medical School, he has dedicated his career to the study of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety. He is the founder of the Hallowell Centers for Cognitive and Emotional Health, and has written several best-selling books, including Driven to Distraction. His style combines scientific rigor with accessible and humane writing.

Reader reviews and ratings

Readers highlight that this book offers a balanced, sensible, and hopeful approach. Many believe that, despite the years since its publication, the advice remains valid and practical. Several people suffering from panic attacks and generalized anxiety disorder have found useful guidance in its pages, even recommended by psychologists. The clarity of the explanations and the vivid clinical cases are particularly valued aspects.

Frequently asked questions about the neuropsychology of worry

What is the difference between normal worry and anxiety disorder?

Normal worry is an adaptive response to stressful situations, while anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive, persistent, and difficult-to-control worry that interferes with daily life. Hallowell explains in his book how to identify when worry becomes dysfunctional.

Does this book replace therapy with a professional?

No. This book is an educational and self-help tool, but it does not replace evaluation or treatment by a psychologist or psychiatrist. It can complement therapy, but always under the guidance of a professional.

Does it include practical exercises?

Yes, the author proposes techniques and strategies that the reader can apply, such as relaxation techniques, cognitive restructuring, and lifestyle changes. However, it is recommended to practice them with appropriate follow-up.