SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY
University Affairs Office
1801 E. Cotati Avenue
Rohnert Park, CA 94928-3609
(707) 664-2057
e-mail: jean.wasp@sonoma.edu
University Affairs Office
1801 E. Cotati Avenue
Rohnert Park, CA 94928-3609
(707) 664-2057
e-mail: jean.wasp@sonoma.edu
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 18, 2003 File #341
Contact: Jean Wasp, Media Relations, (707) 664-2057
Sixteen Ways to Calm Those Stressful Reactions to World Events
Stressful reactions to the current world and statewide affairs can manifest in many unexpected ways, says Richard Rodriguez, Sonoma State University's director of counseling and psychological services.They can range from fear, stress, anxiety, pressure, irritability, anger, and helplessness and they can culminate into everything from roommate conflicts, departmental conflicts, angry e-mails, and angry confrontations in classes, mind-body connection illnesses and conflicts with friends, partners, and family members.
Here are sixteen ways, Rodriquez offers to help calm reactions and create a balanced perspective on world events:
1. Acknowledge the reality of the existence of the current stressful situation.
2. Recognize that not everyone will experience or express the pressure in the same manner.
3. Recognize and accept your feelings as "normal" responses to a stressful or unusual situation.
4. Breathe and pay attention to your breath.
5. Eat regular balanced meals even if you don't feel hungry.
6. Get enough rest--strong emotions can be exhausting
7. Be kind to yourself.
8. Reach out and make contact with others.
9. Share your thoughts and feelings with others. Don't bottle them up.
10. Exercise or participate in some regular physical activity.
11. Avoid excessive use of alcohol or drugs.
12. Delay major decisions or radical changes in your life.
13. Differentiate between what is in your control and out of your
control. Participate in making small decisions--be in control of your, daily routine.
14. Maintain your usual schedule as much as you can.
15. Keep a journal to process your thoughts and feelings.
16. Spend time doing something you enjoy, such as walking in nature or listening to music.
For further information, call Richard Rodriguez at (707) 664-2153.