Ask a JFCS Counselor: How do I stop feeling anxious from reading the news?

JFCS’ highly skilled, licensed therapists work with care and compassion to address the challenges people face throughout their lives. They help clients identify goals and potential solutions to problems that cause emotional turmoil, improve communication, coping skills and symptom management, strengthen self-esteem, promote behavior change, feel better and function at their best.

 

Counseling services don’t need to be scary or daunting. Below, Counselor Michel Rousseau, MSW, LICSW, answers a question we frequently receive. If you have a question you would like to submit for a future column, please email Jill Kozberg, Counseling Program Manager, at jkozberg@jfcsmpls.org. All questions will be published anonymously.

 

Q: The world is so divided right now. How do I stop feeling anxious all the time?

This question is becoming more and more prevalent, especially with the increasing amount of distressing news – both domestic and abroad. When you factor in the 24-hour news cycle and the constant access to updates, I think it is completely normal to feel anxious about the state of the world these days.

 

The important thing to check in on is whether or not this feeling is overwhelming to the point of it interfering with your daily/weekly responsibilities… are you able to focus at work/school? Do you feel like you have a shorter temper with those around you? Do you have specific worries or thoughts that you can’t seem to shake? If so, it may be helpful to meet with someone who will listen and work with you to identify ways to manage these overwhelming feelings.

 

Michel Rousseau, MSW, LICSW

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and received my Master’s Degree from the University of St. Thomas. I have experience working with adults regarding grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I have a deep respect for my clients and the courage they demonstrate by engaging in therapy. Within my practice, I strive to create a non-judgmental space that enables an individual to discuss experiences and process emotions with the central goal of reaching a new level of insight. My passion is to reinforce the inherent strengths that all clients possess in order to identify healthy coping strategies and promote overall well-being.

 

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