Feeling Anxious? It's OK....

The events at the Boston Marathon transported many of us from the metropolitan New York area back to 9/11 and the feelings we had that day: confusion; fear; shock; panic; grief; loss; helplessness…the list goes on and on. Combine this with the fact that it’s just a mere four months since the tragedy at Newtown and mix in the daily threats from North Korea, and it’s no wonder that we’re all feeling increased anxiety.

The good news is that it is ‘normal’ for these current events to trigger past emotions. You may experience:

• Anxiety.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Fear of public spaces.
• Fear of leaving your loved ones.
• Intrusive thoughts (thoughts of the incidents or your fears  that spontaneously occur throughout your day) that interfere with your functioning.

It’s important to have ways to help to manage the feelings, and to know when to seek professional help:

• Limit your exposure to the news. While it’s important to stay informed, watching 24/7 coverage overloads our systems. Instead of feeling in control, we feel overwhelmed.
• Breathe. Sounds simple enough, right?
• Spend time with people you care about and feel safe with.
• Share your feelings with someone you trust. This may be a friend, spouse, faith leader or counselor.

Adults and parents should keep an eye on little ones because they are processing this same information, but are not able to adequately express their feelings.

• Limit media exposure.  If children ask questions, answer them honestly with words they will understand.  Limit information to basic facts.
• Remind them that everyone is working to keep the community safe. Reassure them that it is highly unlikely that something is going to happen to them.
• Look for physical symptoms such as headaches, sleeplessness, mood swings or clinginess, bedwetting, etc. This may happen for a week or two. If it goes on longer, consult your child’s physician. Some children may have no immediate reaction at all and symptoms may occur three to six months later.
• Take care of yourself. You can’t care for your children if you are not feeling well yourself.  Make sure you’re getting sleep and good nutrition.
• Try to keep things as normal as possible for your children. Stick to routines and regular activities.   

Of course, if any of your feelings become overwhelming, you can reach out for support.

Guest blogger: Mara Saumell, director of mental health clinics at The Guidance Center of Westchester.