Self-care and war

Dear College of Education Community,

The psychological impact of the current war in Middle East is far reaching and deep. In addition to the horrific loss of life, war-time violence can lead to anxiety and traumatic stress and can cause long-term effects on health and well-being. These feelings are being experienced by people everywhere, those directly in the path of the violence, those who currently have families and friends in the Middle East, and those concerned about the effects of this war everywhere.

So how can we draw on our knowledge about self-care to help cope with this violent crisis in our world? Here are some suggestions below:

1. LIMIT TIME ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND OTHER NEWS SITES. Whether it’s new updates of the situation, videos of the war, lists of places you can donate to help, or personal connection to the war – it can feel so overwhelming. It’s good to stay connected, but too much information can make us feel hopeless and can cause associated trauma. So be aware of not becoming overwhelmed. And it’s also good to look for solid and verified facts. If you find yourself starting to get anxious or panic, take a few breaths and take a break.
2. REMEMBER TO PRACTICE SELF CARE. It can be easy to think that you don’t deserve to focus on you when there are people suffering during war. But you can focus on you and care about what is happening in the world at the same time.
3. FIND POSITIVES IN THE EVERYDAY. If you feel like your anxiety is spiking, look for the positives around you. Although there is turmoil and it can feel scary – write a list of people you care about and what you love most about them. Looking back at that list, you’ll be so surprised as to how amazing your friends and family are. And for another positive in your life, donate aid to organizations who help the people who need your support the most during this crisis.
4. TALK TO A LOVED ONE. With anxiety and negative thoughts you can sometimes feel really isolated and that you are the only person thinking about the war. Trust us, you’re not alone! Find someone who you feel comfortable being vulnerable with and share how you are feeling. And seek out a professional counseling source if this feels like the right to do.

For resources on how to talk with children about violence, please go to:

 https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-safety-and-crisis/mental-health-resources/war-and-terrorism/helping-children-cope-with-terrorism

For a list of other self-care options, you can also go to our COE self-care website for resources for faculty, staff, students, and the community at

https://www.csun.edu/eisner-education/self-care

The educational and counseling communities are committed to restoring peace and safeguarding human life at this time of conflict in the Middle East.

Warmly,
Shari