Mass anxiety sweeping through Britain
An article over on Times Online recently highlighted the mass anxiety that is sweeping through Britain, causing raised blood pressure, increasing stress-hormone levels and rash economic actions. The credit crisis, bank failures and unpredictable stock prices have apparently sent record numbers seeking therapy.
According to Philip Corr, a professor of psychology, uncertainty causes severe unease: “If you are faced with higher interest rates, large fuel bills, rising food costs and the worry of what is going to happen in the next few months - that can have a catastrophic effect on people.”
Worry ripples through a crowd, like a virus, in a manner called “emotional contagion” and things can rapidly spiral into mass anxiety. However studies show that the fear can be forestalled. Developing resilience skills, such as getting physical, staying curious, keeping a gratitude journal and getting involved with your community can all help to promote a sense of calm during these more difficult times.