
WHY WORRY? - By George Lincoln Walton, M.D. - Consulting Neurologist To The Massachusetts General Hospital
PREFACE.
DEFINITIONS.
I. INTRODUCTORY
II. EPICURUS AS A MENTAL HEALER
III. MARCUS AURELIUS
IV. ANALYSIS OF WORRY
V. WORRY AND OBSESSION
VI. THE DOUBTING FOLLY
VII. HYPOCHONDRIA
The book opens with a simple observation: just as a stork’s long legs cannot be shortened, some mental habits resist change. Its author, a neurologist, explains that worry is not merely a quirk but a state of undue solicitude that can sap health and efficiency. Drawing on everyday examples and classic quotations, he sketches the line between normal concern and the harmful over‑thinking that crowds our minds. The aim is to give busy readers a practical path toward calmer, more productive lives.
He begins by defining common mental strains—hypochondria, obsession, phobia, and occupation neurosis—so readers can name what troubles them. Simple habits such as regular physical activity, focused breathing, and delegating tasks are presented as first‑line tools to reduce the mental load. The tone stays informal yet authoritative, offering anecdotes from patients and concise “do‑it‑yourself” suggestions that fit into a hectic schedule. By the end of the first part, listeners will have a clear set of strategies to recognize and temper unnecessary worry before it becomes a full‑blown nervous breakdown.
Language
en
Duration
~3 hours (191K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Text file produced by Charles Aldarondo, Tiffany Vergon, Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team HTML file produced by David Widger
Release date
2005-07-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1854–1941
A Boston neurologist who wrote for everyday readers, he is best known for turning medical insight into clear, practical advice about worry and nervous strain. His work helped bring early ideas about mental habits and emotional health to a wider public.
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