Mental Health Experts Provide Tips for Coping With Terrorist Threat

National Mental Health Association
Thursday, 13 February 2003

Many people are feeling heightened levels of anxiety and vulnerability with the widespread media attention on possible terrorist attacks, potential for war with Iraq and the North Korean nuclear capability. NMHA has developed tips to help people understand and cope with the range of reactions they may experience during this time of uncertainty.

"The heightened terrorist threat level coupled with a host of disquieting news from economic distress to the Columbia space shuttle tragedy is likely to create fear and anxiety in all of us," said Michael Faenza, NMHA President and CEO. "Paying attention to your mental health, and the mental health of loved ones is crucial."

Strategies for coping:

• Remain engaged in the world by staying connected with people. Don't withdraw. Talk to family, friends or co-workers about your fears.


• Keep up with the news, but don't watch it around the clock.


• Take necessary precautions, but don't overdo it. Make an emergency communication plan with family and friends. Re-introduce yourself to neighbors and exchange phone numbers.


• Maintain your regular routine and include time to do things you enjoy.


• Get involved in local activities. Attend a meeting on community preparedness, send a donation to a relief fund or find other ways to volunteer.


• Take care of your health. Make time for exercise and other pleasurable activities that distract you and lower your stress level. Avoid drugs and alcohol.


• Be optimistic about the challenges ahead. Stay in touch with your spirituality.

If you are anxious or if your "down" feelings don't go away or are so intense that they interfere with your daily life, seek the help of a mental health professional. This can be particularly important for those who have depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, or other mental health or substance abuse problems.

Copies of NMHA's fact sheets on helping adults and children cope with terrorism, violence and fear are available online at www.nmha.org or by calling NMHA's Resource Center at 800-969-NMHA (6642). In addition, NMHA has nationally recognized mental health experts available for interview on coping with crisis and related issues.

The National Mental Health Association is the country's oldest and largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. With more than 340 affiliates nationwide, NMHA works to improve the mental health of all Americans through advocacy, education, research and service.

For more information, or to contact National Mental Health Association, see their website at: www.nmha.org