I’m afraid of being alone

QIf I find I have even half a day without a booked activity, I feel anxious and worry whether I have any friends. I know it’s irrational, as I have friends and family. I also worry about how I’d be if my husband died, as I’d be on my own a lot of the time. Name and address withheld

AOur feelings of anxiety are very real, even when we know that our thoughts are irrational. It sounds like you’d really benefit from some cognitive behavioural therapy, which is a type of psychotherapy that can help you with changing unhelpful

thoughts and feelings and ways of behaving. It uses practical strategies and techniques that you will be taught and can practise at home. It’s very beneficial in helping to shift anxiety, and can make a huge difference to how you feel. I suggest you talk to your GP and ask them if they can source some CBT therapy sessions for you. I think you’ll find it makes a world of difference.

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