TERRORISM: COPING WITH ANXIETY AND FEAR

The following is summarized from "Coping with Anxiety During High Risk Terrorist Alerts" posted on the website of the American Psychiatric Association: www.psych.org/MainMenu/Newsroom/NewsReleases/2003NewsReleases/copingwithanxietyduringhighalerts021203.aspx

Fears and anxieties about terrorism can arise or increase, particularly during times of “high risk” terrorism alerts. There are some steps you can take if you are having difficulty coping with fears and anxieties about terrorism:

• Educate yourself about any dangers or potential dangers. Facts are often less frightening than rumors or myths.
• Reduce or stop watching television news or reading news reports if doing so significantly increases your feelings of anxiety and helplessness.   Television news broadcasts of violence can be frightening for children, especially if viewed repeatedly.
• Talk about your anxieties and fears with friends or family members.  Avoid being alone, when necessary.
• Get involved in activities you can control in your daily life such as hobbies, volunteer work, household projects, or social events.
• Engage in regular exercise and avoid alcohol, caffeine and smoking.

If anxieties and fears seem uncontrollable, talk to a physician or mental health professional. Some symptoms that indicate a need for medical evaluation may include:

• Changes in eating and/or sleeping habits;
• Physical problems such as: back and neck aches, headaches, nausea, etc.;
• Inability to focus attention or concentrate on tasks;
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities;
• Extreme fear of leaving your home.

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SOURCES:American Psychiatric Association website
PREPARED BY: 211/pt
CONTENT LAST REVIEWED: June2008