The world is in shock. Attacks, bombings, natural disasters, and unfortuante accidents are everywhere almost occupying the four corners of the world.
The recent tragedies most especially have been devastating as they were painful repeats of what had happened during and after the Sept. 11 attack. These occurrences are reminding psychologists of the fear and anxiety that were experienced a long time ago.
The New York police commissioner, William J. Bratton released a statement last Wednesday, "We will not be intimidated, and we will not live in fear." His statement was the response to the Islamic State propaganda video. Terrorism is a heinous act that frightens and sets the public in panic. During these situations, people in authorities would often suggest people to continue on with their daily lives as this is the best way to cope.
But what if it does not work? What if people are still anxious? What if people cannot go about their lives and instead stop and worry?
According to The New York Times, clinical psychologist and the director of the Columbia University Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders, Anne Marie Albano said, "It's becoming sort of everyday life knowing that we cannot predict with good accuracy at all when something may happen." A person should now different ways to cope with anxiousness.
Here are some techniques you can follow to cope with anxiety:
- Make sure your fear is not out of proportion by comparing this with the facts.
- Calm your self by taking closing your eyes and taking a deep breaths.
- Plan how you would get in contact with your family should something happen.
- Minimize your exposure to social media and the media.
- Stick to your daily routine.
On the Psychology Today website, experts said that people who experienced the tragedy first-hand were most likely to be traumatized. The best suggestion is for people to continue performing normal things, like activities done before the tragedy. If people chose to use drugs and alcohol, the risk of having anxiety is high.
Amidst all the heart-breaking, life-threatening tragedies that are happening, people should learn to develop strong minds. People must also prioritize ways on how to cope with all the psychological stress.
