As the coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen, testing our resolve and rattling markets, anxiety may give way to panic. The latter is irrational fear, often leading to behavior that is counterproductive, if not dangerous.
Panic arises primarily from a sense that one has no control over whatever is causing their fear. Hoping to learn that their personal risk is diminishing, he/she may compulsively tune into coverage of the fear-inducing event (in this case the pandemic), a reaction facilitated by 24/7 cable news and, of course, the internet.
Panic is best assuaged by taking productive action, thereby gaining a sense of control, and by focusing on the present rather than on an uncertain (and imagined to be disastrous) future. By adhering to the recommendations of public health officials and assisting those who are especially threatened by the pandemic (family members, neighbors or certain community groups) one is likely to find that their level of anxiety falls in concert. Limiting exposure to updates via television or the internet is also advised.
Panic arises primarily from a sense that one has no control over whatever is causing their fear. Hoping to learn that their personal risk is diminishing, he/she may compulsively tune into coverage of the fear-inducing event (in this case the pandemic), a reaction facilitated by 24/7 cable news and, of course, the internet.
Panic is best assuaged by taking productive action, thereby gaining a sense of control, and by focusing on the present rather than on an uncertain (and imagined to be disastrous) future. By adhering to the recommendations of public health officials and assisting those who are especially threatened by the pandemic (family members, neighbors or certain community groups) one is likely to find that their level of anxiety falls in concert. Limiting exposure to updates via television or the internet is also advised.
