It's hard to be upbeat these days with a global economic crisis, ongoing war, dire warnings about climate change and daily catastrophes from across the planet. And, of course, all of this bad news is constantly updated by our faithful cable news correspondents. Even the Weather Channel, which should provide an escape from this carnage, insists on entertaining us with its series on natural disasters.
How to cope? Generally speaking, it's best to tune out. The constant bombardment of crises via online websites and cable TV can induce significant stress which, in turn, can contribute to a variety of health problems, from headaches to heart attacks. Over time, this relentless bad news, the preferred fodder of talk radio and cable commentators, can lead to symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Stay in touch with important news via a daily newspaper or via programs by PBS or the BBC, which provide a thorough but calm review of the day's major events. At the same time, come to accept that it is fruitless to worry about issues over which we have no control. Plan a period of daily, aerobic exercise to reduce stress and concentrate on what you can do to make your life more enjoyable and productive. Finally, we can all find comfort by contributing to the welfare of our species and our planet by volunteering our services to environmental, political or social support organizations; those engaged in rewarding activity are generally more optimistic and less stressed.
