It is important to me abide by the principles or thoughts I share here as part of my diary.

With that in mind, I went to get professional help with my inability to handle stress well and a lack of an ability to assert myself well. In short, I worry too much and cannot let go. I have been known to literally worry myself sick.

The idea first came up in my Family Dynamics class about five months ago. My wife and I agreed on a way to proceed – we also agreed that if it wasn’t working that I would get outside help. So, last Saturday, I went to visit my doctor and we discussed particulars that would help us to know if we were a good fit for each other. To my relief, we were. We share similar beliefs about using medication (last resort) and the importance of honesty. He is not the visit every week kind of therapist, but someone that works with someone once or twice a month with homework. My homework assignment this time is to get a complete physical.

I feel it is important to share all of this because it is what I think about a lot these days. I enjoy my son and family. I want to learn how to handle important issues in our lives without stressing myself out. Practically, this tends to show up in my infamous aversion to the telephone. It’s moved beyond the normal, “I hate the phone” and screening calls – I do not talk on the phone.

There’s more to it, but I hope to share it as I go along. I believe in the value of outside help and I look forward to how it can help me and my family.