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5 Ways to Keep Swine Flu (H1N1 virus) Anxiety in Check

 
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This Friday the World Health Organization Confirmed 2500 cases of swine flu in 25 different countries and a total 25 deaths. It's no wonder stores say their supply of hand sanitizer is flying off the shelf. So if you're feeling anxious and worried about yourselves and family it's completely understandable but it's also important not to let that anxiety get out of control.

Here are some steps to keep your fears under control:

1. Stay grounded in reality. To date most cases reported in the U.S. have not been life threatening (only two deaths). Most Americans who contract the H1N1 virus have recovered.

2. Get reliable accurate information. Don't make your main information gathering source the main stream media. Unfortunately the main stream media can have a tendency to bombard you with a seemingly never ending stream of reports. These reports may be overwhelming and at times somewhat dramatized and sensational.
It's best to get your information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization or any other credible health organization.
The conclusion: don't get your information from a middle man; go directly to the source such as the CDC.

3. The best reaction to anxiety is action. Along with washing your hands regularly you should go on and live your life. Keep your self busy by being socially active, exercising, meditating and keeping a full schedule.

4. Communicate with your family. One way of undermining your fears is to discuss the subject with those most important to you. Communicate with your children about any concerns they might be having. This will not only help them maintain a sense of calm but it should also help alleviate your own distress.

5. Seek additional help.. If you have very intense feelings of helplessness, anxiety or depression it may be time to seek the help of a licensed mental health professional. Below are some resources to help you do just that.

Oh, and for some good news: According the the World Health Organization, we are now better prepared for a flu outbreak than at any other time in history. Read more

Helpful Links:

American Psychological Association-Psychologist Locator

Centers for Disease Control

World Health Organization

Google Maps swine flu outbreak map

HealthFinder

WebMD's Swine Flu Page

Add a Comment1 Comments

EmpowHER Guest
Anonymous

Another very important way to avoid swine and avian flu - quit eating the foods that propagate these illnesses - swine products [pork, ham, bacon, etc.] and avian products [chicken, turkey, duck, and eggs].

Although one does not get the illness from eating the contaminated animal products if it is handled and cooked correctly, just consuming these foods will propagate enzymes and cultures to exist within our bodies that can contribute to spreading this disease in our systems.

For more truths and facts about swine flu, scientifically known as influenza A virus subtype H1N1: http://www.healingnews.com/Healing_Swine_Flu_04282009.html

For other pertinent information: http://www.HealingNews.com

May 9, 2009 - 10:55am
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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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