Some are about introspecting about ideas, others are about letting go of them and focusing on a simple task (counting, breathing, flames, whatever).
Some of the latter type can really help with that stuff you are worrying about, as you will get better at removing yourself from that stuff.
Even though I last regularly meditated over a decade ago, I can still do the "just let it go" trick usually. Helps tons
Non aff link to book that talks about lots of techniques. I did the counting to 4 one: http://www.amazon.com/How-Meditate-Self-Discovery-Lawrence-L...
The best book that I've seen on the subject is "How to Meditate" by Lawrence LeShan. http://www.amazon.com/dp/0316880620
Meditation isn't magic, it's not stress relief, and it's not easy. Approach it like working out, because that's what it is. Do some research, formulate a routine, keep track of your progress, and maybe even get a friend to join you on the path so you can help each other stay motivated. It's easy to quit, and there will be LONG stretches when it seems like you've plateaued and there's no point.
Imagine if your legs got sore and tired every time you walked from your apartment to the car. You might conclude (correctly) that you need exercise your legs to make them stronger so that you won't get sore so easily. However, the first few times you work out, you'll be much more sore than otherwise.
Similarly, stress may be indicating that you need more balance and self-awareness. Meditation can give you that, but it can be a very stressful experience! At first, it may seem like it's making things worse. In fact, if you're doing it right, you'll probably hate it a little, because it won't be comfortable.
On the other hand, stress may be indicating that you need to make your heart and lungs stronger, and increase your muscle mass. So get out and move around.
I've had great results from physical activity like biking regularly. I just recently started taking taekwondo, and it's pretty incredible. It's best if it's something repetitive that you can gradually get better at with practice.
You might also consider seeing a shrink to talk about what's stressing you out. No one gets out of childhood without scars, and there's no shame in tackling the problem head on with a professional. Do you fix your own pipes? Remove your own wisdom teeth? Sew your own clothes? Isn't your mind even more complex than all of these things? Get help. Like meditation and exercise, therapy might not "feel good"; it's work that you do for long-term benefit, and it should hurt a little.
