There's little debate in our society today that Americans are experiencing an increasing amount of stress in their lives, especially during this pre-war period we're living in. Perhaps because New York City was a target of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, people in our region tend to exhibit a greater degree of stress than others.

With all of the debate raging around an imminent war with Iraq, nuclear standoff with North Korea, the continued downslide of the economy, the paralysis of the stock market and Osama Bin Laden once again within our rifle sights, the country is beginning to experience pre-traumatic stress syndrome. This condition that seems to have our populace in its grip can be described as a feeling one gets when they perceive that the world as we know it is dramatically changing or even coming to an end. You feel as if you can't make meaningful life decisions.

If we take time to look around us we can identify some of the causes of this syndrome. We're watching too much 24-hour news; especially those of us fixated with the scroll at the bottom of the television screen. We're overdosing on the talking heads that spin their administration's message on television and radio. Some of us are obsessed with homeland security recommendations that we duct-tape our windows in the event of a chemical attack.

Whether the warnings are yellow, orange or red - we're all starting to feel blue. There are anti-war demonstrations taking place on our college campuses, at high schools and in other parts of the world. Nations are at odds with each other and there is a global feeling of doubt. We are questioning our policies, leadership, decision-making processes and intentions. We are even beginning to question just who we are. With so much uncertainty and change around us, it is no wonder our stress levels are climbing.

In order to effectively cope with the impact of this new pre-traumatic stress syndrome, it is important that we not lose track of those little things that are important in our lives. We must continue to invest in those activities that make us happy, or at least make us feel like we're accomplishing something. With spring right around the corner this would be a great time to plan outdoor activities. Just leave your gas mask at home. Go for a walk on the beach. Take your children to the playground. Plant flowers in your garden or in someone else's garden. Spend time with family and friends. Read a good book. Go dancing or sing off-key Karaoke somewhere.

There's probably very little that you or I can do to prevent any of these traumatic events from happening. But our individuality, personal happiness and ability to be content are within our control. Invest in yourself and you will be able to handle most of what this new pre-traumatic stress syndrome deals you. However, if you find it difficult to cope with the uncertainty and anxiety, you might want to contact our Counseling Center at 822-6111 or our Project Liberty Program at 622-1536.