ANXIETIES are everywhere! We live in times of anxiety which are real hard to deal with, from financial crisis, family breakdown, war, deadly disease outbreaks and natural or man-made disasters to a variety of many personal worries.
Fortunately, not all anxiety is bad. We naturally feel some stress before a test, a performance or a job interview. Fortunately again, a healthy fear of danger helps us to avoid harm. But unfortunately, extreme or constant anxiety is destructive. Therefore, we stop being anxious all the time; is it possible?
Anxiety about money.
Nowadays, the prices of food and basic needs become so expensive. Although some may worry desperately about their needs whether real or imagined and unknowingly strive anxiously to obtain things they do not really need. And sometimes, they go into debt learning the hard way that the borrower is a slave to the lender. But of course together as a family, it is important that the members resolve to face financial problems properly, though it may seem tiring for everyone. Hopefully sooner or later with the help of every member, they can find a practical solution when they do not give up and pray for enlightenment at the same time.
Anxiety about family.
In today’s rapidly changing and uncertain world, it is quite normal that many times we face family problems which seem impossible to deal with. Here are some practical suggestions to succeed in our demanding role with joy and contentment: get more support, communicate more effectively, set sound priorities, set clear boundaries of behavior, establish wholesome values and above all everyday, we always remember to pray for God’s guidance. All of them if applied properly in these critical times when marriage and family are under attack will contribute to our happiness.
Anxiety about danger.
Fear of the future can cause anxiety. The discovery that you or your loved one has a life-threatening illness can make you feel as though you have been hit by a bomb. Knowing that bad things happen, we try to protect our physical well-being and can take steps to shield our mental and emotional health. Violent entertainment and even news report filled with horrific images add to our own and our children’s anxiety. But our minds are not design to dwell on evil. Instead, we should fill them with whatever things are true, righteous, chaste and lovable. Hopefully, if we do, the God of peace will give us peace of mind and heart.
If despite all precautions, some of us are still not dealing successfully with anxiety, they can see a guidance counselor, family medicine practitioner, psychologist or psychiatrist for professional enlightenment and guidance.
Happy fiesta today, Gingoog City, my hometown! For a long time now, I miss attending its usual one-week enjoyable fiesta celebration yearly since I’ve been living here in Cagayan de Oro City for quite sometime now.