Bridge Over Worried Waters (for Anxiety Disorders)

Bridge Over Worried Waters
by Franklin Rubenstein, Ph.D.

Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is the treatment of choice for anxiety—and it’s the basis for this game.

Players respond to anxiety-producing situations described on Problem Cards by choosing one of three strategies presented on Solution Cards:

• Self-Talk—Replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts
• Relaxation—Practicing deep breathing, muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and meditation
• Coping—Using distraction to divert attention from anxiety to fun

As problems are solved, players use their discarded Solution Cards to build a bridge that will carry them over the “Worried Waters” to safety. (Card stands included with the game facilitate this process.) Players can construct their own bridges, or the group can work together to build a single, elaborate bridge. Either way, this task ensures that players have fun as they learn to deal with their anxiety. For 2 to 5 players.