When it comes to global disruption, it’s been a difficult couple of years. Just as COVID-19’s darkness was ready to give way to light, the world witnessed something much bigger, a probable third world war. Humans all around the world appear to be suffering as a result of the Russia-Ukraine issue. The Russian invasion of Ukraine not only disrupts internal peace and harmony, but it also has several constraints and drawbacks for the rest of the world.
Fear and anxiety will be unbearable for anyone caught up in the violence. And for those of us who are on the sidelines, the feelings of helplessness, dread, and despair can be overwhelming. While it’s uncertain how this conflict will play out or how long it will last, people may experience anxiety as a result of the unknown. So, if you’re worried about the status of the world right now, know that you’re not alone.
You can’t avoid thinking about a war by taking care of yourself. No amount of breathing exercises or positive thinking will persuade Putin to change his views or affect the direction of political events. We can, however, adjust how we react to situations that are absolutely out of our control. No matter how depressing the news becomes, being able to distinguish between what we can change and what we must adjust to can help us control our stress reaction and avoid spiraling. Here are some tips for you to cope with war anxiety and stress.
Tips to cope with war anxiety and stress
1. Self Talk
When you employ encouraging and helpful language in your thoughts, this is known as positive self-talk. You are more likely to create confidence and self-esteem, feel more in control of events in your life, and achieve your goals if you use more positive self-talk. Remind yourself to check in with your thoughts and that your feelings are normal. Remember that thinking about the topic that makes you anxious will only make you feel worse.
2. Keep an eye on your media consumption
Avoid or limit your time spent on news and social media, especially before bedtime, and limit your information sources to those that provide plain facts. Limiting your media consumption to specific periods of the day and avoiding social media for news is extremely beneficial.
3. Pray
Pray for yourself, pray for the people in the war crisis and pray for the world. Prayer helps a person in overcoming his limitations, helplessness, and insecurity. While you can do nothing about what is happening in Ukraine, you can always pray for the best always.
4. Breathe
Step away from whatever you’re doing and take a deep breath if you feel your body constricting or overheating. Deep breathing is one of the most effective methods for reducing stress in the body. This is because deep breathing sends a signal to your brain to relax and calm down. Breathing exercises can help you relax, de-stress, and relieve stress.
5. Distract and nourish yourself
Make an effort to do something that is both beneficial for your body and will help you get out of your thoughts. Move your body. Get the blood flowing. For many of us, the kitchen is a safe haven. Perhaps this weekend you’ll finally recreate Grandpa’s legendary risotto, learn how to make a tastier pie, or simply lose yourself in some kitchen organization.
6. Keep in touch
It’s easy to become lost in our heads when the news is frightening. Instead, reach out to your loved ones. Sit down to send an actual letter to a relative, spend time with neighbors, play (or also create!) games with family, or even take the time to write down those generational memories are all examples of this. If your children are having trouble going to bed at the end of the day, try talking to them about the recent events.
Tips on war anxiety and stress may help you to be in control of your thoughts. War may or may not be inevitable. Cry it out, let go of the burden in your head. The change within you can happen. Take care of yourself, your loved ones and reach out to anyone in despair because no matter how different our takes on life are, we are one.
