Chronic worry can lead to a host of physical ailments: heart attacks, high blood pressure, ulcers, gastrointestinal problems, muscular aches and pains, skin rashes, eczema, respiratory problems and asthma. Close to one in four people, at some point in their lives, meet criteria for diagnosable anxiety disorders related to worry which require professional treatment.

Indeed, worry appears to be rampant in our society - the result of living in a fast-paced, high-pressure, rapidly changing world. People worry mainly about their children, job security, relationships and health but there are other, smaller worries that gnaw on us all. Distant events such as wars and famines in other countries, air disasters, crime and random acts of violence, even volatility in the stock market.

So how can you control your anxiety level so that it doesn't reach toxic proportions which can become harmful to your health? Here are some things you can do:

• Get the facts. Often worry is based on a lack of information or misinformation.
• Take action. Set up an emergency cash reserve if you worry over finances. Talk to your boss about problems at work. See your doctor if you have medical concerns that have been worrying you.
• Never worry alone. Talk to someone about your anxieties. Men and women will worry about the same things but men will bottle up their worries.
• Get exercise. Exercising at least 3 times a week is not only good for your physical state - when you exercise, your mental state changes, reducing anxiety and depression.
• Have quiet moments. Go for a walk in a quiet place. Being outdoors, having a change of scenery and fresh air can change your perspective. Listen to music that is calm and soothing, take up meditation or try a warm bath with some aromatherapy.

Most of these steps will bring your anxiety level down to a manageable level. However, if you find no improvement, or if you have an anxiety disorder or panic attacks, you should seek professional help.