There are so many bad things happening in the world today. School shootings, terrorism, violence, abuse… sometimes it feels like there is nowhere safe to go. Even putting children on the school bus each morning can be nerve-wracking as parents realize they can’t protect and control what happens to their kids every moment of the day.
Is fear paralyzing you from being able to function at work or home? Maybe you worry about finances, relationships, or safety. A small amount of anxiety can help you make safe decisions for yourself and your family– that pit in your stomach when you realize you’re driving through a bad part of town, so you lock your car doors, for example. But too much fear can cause you to miss out on important life events.
Here are a few tips for managing your anxiety:
- Turn off the news. It’s important to know what’s going on in the world, but watching story after story about natural disasters, war, and other traumatic events can actually desensitize us and raise our anxiety. News programs are designed to shock us, not lift our spirits or give us a balanced perspective about life.
- Write down your fears. Once you see them on paper, they won’t be as overwhelming.
- Surround yourself with positive, uplifting people. “Hide” your Facebook friends that are always posting negative comments (or unfriend them altogether). Find a community like a church or other group where you feel safe and can connect with others.
If your anxiety is affecting your physical health (chest pains, stomachaches, headaches), your work (missing work or having trouble performing your job), or your relationships (loved ones begin to worry about you), consider seeing a professional. Call us to schedule a consultation to see if counseling could help you manage your anxiety and enjoy your life.