A new self-help book co-authored by a University of the Sunshine Coast academic and clinical psychologist of 13 years is designed to help take the worry out of life.

Dr Lee Kannis-Dymand, a practising psychologist who has lectured in clinical psychology at USC since he arrived in 2011, has had his first book released by major publishers in Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The book, ‘How to Deal with Anxiety’, includes a practical, five-step plan based on latest evidence related to cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).

It is co-authored by Dr Janet D Carter from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand.

“The book is based on research into the most effective ways of overcoming worry and generalised anxiety disorder,” said Dr Kannis-Dymand, who has worked at hospitals in the UK and NZ, including anxiety specialist centres.

“We explain techniques to help people detach from the act of worrying and learn how to make their attention more flexible so they don’t focus on worst possible outcomes. We offer healthy ways of tackling anxious thoughts.

“It’s aimed at people who spend too much time worrying, or seek too much reassurance from others, or are constantly looking on Google for answers.

“Our message is to let go of the belief that worrying will prevent bad things from happening, or that worrying is uncontrollable.”

Dr Kannis-Dymand, who specialises in treating anxiety with CBT and recently completed postgraduate study in CBT at the University of Oxford, said he was delighted and a bit overwhelmed when approached to write his first book.

“It was a massive task and took about a year to make it relatable and user-friendly,” he said.

“Training in evidence-based treatments, like those we feature in the book, are among the skills taught to USC’s psychology students to ensure we have well-trained practitioners graduating each year.”

The book is on sale for $21.99 and published in Australia by Hachette. For details go to Fishpond www.fishpond.com.au or Booktopia www.booktopia.com.au.

— Julie Schomberg