Experiencing existential crisis? - Fear of War

This early morning, as I opened my usual news outlet I experienced a strange sensation, as I read about the attack on Ukraine by Russia. I felt a tightening, like a knot in the pit of my stomach. I realised, I was feeling incredibly stressed as I read on and saw video clips of the unfolding situation. I am writing this blog post to try and help others who like me are in a sort of daze after reading this news, and who are wondering what this means for those of us not in Ukraine or Russia at the moment. All my experiences working with Ukrainian and Russian people have been incredibly positive, and my heart goes out to all those caught in the middle of such a tragedy!

If after today, you are experiencing fear of war, it is good to understand that every bit of information that we are coming across, is transforming into generalising that Everything is perpetuating monstrous things. As this happens, we become increasingly conscious of questioning our existence-- the painting by Gauguin Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going comes to mind. Think of it as akin to becoming 'lost in the jungle' where there are limited choices for survival, and where one needs to create opportunities to increase the number of choices. Therefore, fear of war does not only endanger your own life, but brings to question your right to exist as well as the people close to you.

How to manage this stress?

The points below, mirror techniques used in a therapeutic environment. Here is a summary of some tips to help you de-stress and manage these fears:

1. Take up breathing, muscle relaxation and meditation

2. Cognitive restructuring

3. Positive visualisation

4. Drawing upon spiritual, moral or ethical resources

5. Distancing and reassessment

6. Finding a safe release for your emotions (e.g. keeping a diary)

7. Keeping contact with your friends and family

8. Keep yourself busy with exercise and things you enjoy

While I understand that some of you reading this post, might not yet be feeling stressful, or question whether the war will actually affect you, these tips are still useful whenever you find yourself in a stressful environment.

Before I sign off, I would like to say that these past few years have been incredibly strange, stressful, and worrisome for many of us, and our bonds with one another have definitely helped keep us sane. Whether or not, the rest of the world will be affected by today's news, let's continue to express our love for our friends and family and support one another.