Bad news. Terrible news. Hatred and violence. It's too much. I feel this way today: Overwhelmed by the latest news coming from Baton Rouge, St. Paul, and Dallas. I'm sad and scared for my growing boys. I know obsessing about it doesn't help, but it's hard not to. I found some things we can do to reduce the stress.
Read more ¿Qué más?: 5 EASY steps to increase your energy everyday
Image via Getty Images
What's up with these shootings?
It seems that every day there is some random act of terrorism. ISIS- inspired, police brutality, racism, whatever the excuse, all this violence does nothing but provoke more violence and hatred. The death of two African American men shot by the police this week and the shooting of five policemen and one civilian in Dallas have left us depleted and clueless. The first thing to do is to help yourself and your loved ones. Here is what you need to know.
Feeling down is normal
"Because of the unpredictable nature of these types of situations, it’s normal for people to experience emotional distress," according to literature on Mental Health Services Administration's website about the general feelings that follow mass violence.
Overwhelming anxiety is a problem
However, it becomes problematic when that feeling of fear becomes constant. It can happen to children, too. A sign is when they get easily irritable or have crying episodes for no apparent reason.
Feeling constantly worried
Chaos provokes this anxiety, however it's important to pay attention to make sure the feeling doesn't take over your life.
Trouble sleeping
This is a common symptom of stress and it breeds more stress. It's important to check with the doctor if it lasts for more than two weeks.
Feeling numb or like nothing matters
This feeling that nothing matters is just as unhealthy.
Feeling guilty but not sure why
Behind the guilt comes the need to control something. People feel guilty when they could have done something differently, right? It doesn't make sense in this scenario.
Feeling helpless or hopeless
The increasing incidents of violence–whether it's shootings or terrorism–can make you feel hopeless. If it begins to take over your life and affect how you go about your day, you should seek help from a professional.
Feeling like you have to keep busy
Many people fill their hours with activities so they don't have to stop and think or feel. It's important to find out the reason if you feel your life is more hectic.
What can you do
If you or your loved ones feel that way, call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746__.__
Be prepared
The Mental Health Services Administration has several coping tips and here's an important one: Take a break from the news, on TV or social media.
