Stress, an over booked schedule, lack of confidence and peer pressure are reasons mentioned for having anxiety attacks...after struggling with this a long time, anxiety to me (after reading this book) is basically part of your mind letting your mind run wild and thinking some of the most outrageous things all at the same time that you are thinking rational ones, and this conflicting thought process basically makes you have a panic attack or anxiety attack. This book is about perspective in that, if you have a broad enough scope when thinking about perspective, your brain can train itself not to have the same complications, therefore stopping the panic attacks. Easier said than done, but good book.

I actually have to disagree with the previous reviewer of this book. As a long time sufferer from anxiety, I employ many methods to control my condition. I have went to therapy since I was a child and continue to do so to this day. There have been times in my life that I have been on medication for my anxiety. The problem with some of the conventional methods for treating anxiety (the medications) are that they have nasty side effects.

My therapist recommended that I look into some alternative or holistic methods for coping with anxiety. I picked this book up at my local fabulous Barnes and Noble during a retail therapy (haha) session. The section on yoga prompted me to go join a local yoga class. I have learned how to relax and meditate for calmness. I have also started seeing a homeopathic doctor that has helped me so much. I would have never done that without the advice in this book. I feel like I have a better handle on my anxiety now, without being drugged all the time.

If you suffer from anxiety, give this book a shot.

Bourne states this book lends itself to long-term healing from anxiety. He states that therapy only offer a quick, short term fix. The techniques described in his book, however, are generally short term fixes. Yoga, herbal supplements, acupuncture and the like, as suggested by Bourne, can certainly be used as a part of relaxation and stress management. Getting to the root of anxiety, and healing it, cannot be done by yoga or St. John's wort. Bourne neglects to explore the options of using therapy as a means to conquer anxiety, and if it can't be conquered, to live with it without the anxiety ruling your life. Although Bourne's Anxiety and Phobia Workbook was excellent, and discussed the roots of anxiety, and exercises for short term and long term healing, this book falls far short from offering healing possibilities. At best, it offers explanations for anxiety (perfectionism, stress), and at worst it offers short term distractions that most therapists warn against except for emergency situations.