Almost everyone has been personally affected with the ongoing deployment of U.S. troops to the Middle East.
Chances are that most of us either know someone directly or know of someone who is serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Many throughout the community are feeling the effects of this war through anxiety and worry.
It is common for people to experience anxiety during times of personal crisis. However, what some do not realize is that many find the current war to also be a source for great anxiety whether they know someone in the military operations or are viewing the situation on the television.
Confronting these feelings may be very difficult for some and may need to seek help to understand how to effectively cope with them.
The Crisis Center in Bristol understands this and is going to be offering a counseling and support group for those who have family or friends involved in the military as well as for people who are just concerned about the situation.
The Crisis Center is located at 100 Oak View Avenue in Bristol, Va. The first meeting will be Thursday, April 3 at 7 p.m.
Volunteer social workers Donna McKnew and Lynn Darnell will lead the group. It is their hope that these sessions will be helpful and will be able to continue on a weekly basis.
The Crisis Center has some advice for everyone who is concerned with the current state of things. They advise that it is important to remember that there are other things going on in the community.
It is important that people do not allow themselves to become completely immersed in the news programs. Constant dwelling on the news will increase anxiety.
“Remember to do things for yourself. You can’t let it continuously prey on your mind,” said Darlene Harrison of the Crisis Center.
She also said that it is important to try to do something constructive so that you do not feel so helpless.
Some suggestions for constructive work include making care packages for soldiers or writing to a soldier as a pen pal.
Please remember that if you are experiencing anxiety over the war that it is OK to seek help. You are not alone in your concern. The Crisis Center can be contacted at (276) 466-2218.

Author