Los Angeles, Feb. 25, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Just when we thought there is light at the end of the tunnel with the pandemic, our lives are filled with news of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The 24-7 news cycle feeds fears of a war spreading across Europe and even globally.
“Non-stop stress and uncertainty leaves a mark on our mental well-being,” says Dr. Michele Nealon, Psy.D., president of The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. “One remedy is to prioritize your normal routines-- predictability helps us feel we are in control and safe. In stressful times, we spend more time worrying that something bad is going to happen—and that is exhausting.”
The pandemic has already taken a heavy mental toll on many, especially young people. According to Dr. Nealon, parents are cautioned to pay special attention to their children who exhibit a change in behavior, such as withdrawing from friends or eating more/not eating.
“Fear of the unknown is especially taxing on young, impressionable minds,” she says. “It’s our job as adults to monitor social media and news media intake for our kids now more than ever.”
According to Dr. Nealon, there are a few specific ways we can all better manage our anxiety. “It’s time todouble down on what we know about taking care of ourselves,” she says. Recommendations include:
- Prioritize sleep
- Eat regular and healthy meals
- Do some form of exercise daily
- Practice mindfulness
- Reach out to your support system
- If you are feeling overwhelmed, reach out for professional help
- Avoid “catastrophizing”—focusing on the “what ifs”
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About The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Integrating theory with hands-on experience, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology provides education rooted in a commitment to innovation, service, and community for thousands of diverse students across the United States and globally. Founded in 1979, the nonprofit, regionally accredited university now features campuses in iconic locations across the country (Chicago, Southern California, Washington, D.C., New Orleans, Dallas) and Online. To spark positive change in the world where it matters most, The Chicago School has continued to expand its educational offerings beyond the field of psychology to offer more than 35 degrees and certificates in the professional fields of health services, nursing, education, counseling, business, and more. Through its engaged professional model of education, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and an extensive network of domestic and international professional partnerships, The Chicago School’s students receive real-world training opportunities that reflect their future careers. The Chicago School is also a proud affiliate of TCS, a nonprofit system of colleges advancing student success and community impact. To learn more,visit thechicagoschool.edu
