Many articles are currently being written to address the present worldwide pandemic. I think it is important to look to reliable and factual sources for this information. We are surrounded by a kind of panic mentality in our nation; it is important that strong reason and responsible decision-making prevail as we address the host of crises facing us.
Much like a moth’s attraction to a flame, we are also drawn to tragedies and catastrophes that surround us, i.e. .witness the line of cars that slow down as drivers strain to see the accident on the side of the road. Often times, we find ourselves experiencing a kind of paralysis about how to manage all the negative information that bombards us. At times like this, it is imperative that we make the effort to turn the spotlight on ourselves and think about how we choose to manage ourselves and our families given these circumstances.
There are many suggestions being given as to how to respond to this pandemic. I believe the most important of these suggestions to be, “Take care of you first”. This may seem obvious, but so often overlooked. It is important that we BREATHE and relax ourselves before we begin to react to any information given to us. Anxiety may be a normal reaction to an abnormal situation, but human beings have the capacity to replace this “normal” reaction with a much more self-enhancing and productive response that will enable adaptive and productive behavior in the face of crisis. By breathing, relaxing, and assessing the situation from a calmer perspective, we will insure a much more competent and well-constructed response to any dilemma we face.
During a panic reaction, individuals often respond to their own rapid heart beat and shortness of breath associated with panic, by escalating the panic!!! Therefore, simply slowing down the breathing and relaxing the body is in itself a proactive reaction to the panic, and will start the process of behavior change. Deepak Chopra, the popular author in contemporary psychology, has said, “in the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you”. As we are bombarded with data from all directions it is in our best interest (and in the interest of those around us) to stay calm and make prudent choices.
Attitudes and behaviors are often just as “contagious” as viruses. As each of us practices calmness, we spread this way of responding to those around us. Psychologists have long understood that out of the emotion of calmness many options for behavioral responses are available. For instance, the most successful athletes perform at optimal levels when they are calm and can choose their behavioral response to a situation.
A prize fighter or football player might choose to behave aggressively when challenged, but choice is clearly more available when one can think out of a calm state. If one is feeling angry or fearful or anxious, the choices for action are usually limited to act aggressively or run! Thinking of the appropriate plays or focusing on an opponents weaknesses is much more difficult and exhausting when one is consumed with his/her own anger or fear or anxiety.
In this same way, calmness will allow us to think carefully about how we wish to respond in a difficult situation, and ultimately to make better choices that may save us all unnecessary heartache and loss. This period of difficulty could very easily lend itself to an opportunity of decisive action for those who are willing to” find the stillness within” and practice calm leadership.
Laura R. Meers, Ph.D.
Consulting Psychologist
