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HELP FOR THOSE FEELING ANXIETY IN THE WAKE OF SNIPER SHOOTINGS


SILVER SPRING, MD (OCTOBER 11, 2002) - The shootings that have recently taken place in the DC metropolitan area have many people shaken up, exacerbating normal anxieties and those created by the events of 9/11. Individuals are more prone to be affected adversely to perceived danger when they have experienced a previous trauma, as many in this area have.

It is normal, given what is going on, for people to feel jumpy, restless, have trouble sleeping, or find it difficult to go about their daily routines. These are normal reactions and people should not be concerned unless the feelings persist over the next few weeks or interfere with daily life. Jerilyn Ross, M.A., L.I.C.S.W., President and CEO of the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA), confirms that these are normal reactions to current events and says that, "People who are feeling anxious should take control over the things in their lives that they can control. If they are feeling edgy or are having trouble sleeping they should try to stick to their routines, eat well, exercise, and avoid watching too much television before going to bed." Children, in particular, may be prone to anxiety because their sense of security is less developed than that of adults. Some recommendations for helping children through difficult times are:

  • Listen to children.
  • If children seem upset but are not talking about it, try to engage them by playing a game, or have them
    draw a picture of what they are feeling and discuss it with them.
  • Keep media exposure to a minimum.
  • Encourage children to ask questions and share their feelings.
  • Answer their question without using jargon, hyperbole, or euphemisms.
  • Reassure children that everything is being done to catch the "bad guys," and stress the fact that they
    and their loved ones are safe.
  • Stick to the daily routine as much as possible.

The ADAA has a referral database for people who feel that their anxiety is overwhelming or is interfering with their lives. To find a therapist, individuals can visit ADAA website at www.adaa.org, or call 240-485-1001.

About the ADAA
The ADAA is the only national, nonprofit partnership of researchers, health care professionals, and individuals dedicated solely to the early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of anxiety disorders. It is the Association's goal to promote professional and public awareness and understanding of anxiety disorders; it also seeks to increase the availability of effective treatment, reduce the stigma surrounding anxiety disorders, and stimulate research. For more information on the ADAA, or on anxiety disorders, please go to the website at www.adaa.org.