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Teens and War: Coping with War Rhetoric
Tips and advice to help teens cope with the stress of war talk and rhetoric.
By Tina Kells
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Tina Kells holds a BA in Psychology from the University of British Columbia and has written several feature articles for Teen Advice. She is also the About.com Teen Music Guide.
 

Coping with talk of war -- the short list:

  1. Don't obsess about war, even if you become actively involved in any anti-war or pro-war movements. Have a life outside of your position on the war.

  2.  
  3. Turn off the TV and take a break from the news. The war rhetoric on TV can be anxiety provoking and you deserve a break. Nothing will happen if you avoid any war news for a few days, and if the big day comes when a peace accord is reached or a war is started you'll know about it whether you have watched TV that day or not.

  4.  
  5. Find an outlet; a healthy outlet. Jump into some physical fitness, be creative and write stories or poetry, keep a journal about daily non-war events, write songs or sing music, join an acting troop. Find something positive to occupy your time and energy.

  6.  
  7. Stay away from drugs and alcohol. When feeling overwhelmed some people find it tempting to lose themselves in a high. This is counter-productive. It is very easy to slip into depressions when you turn to drugs to alleviate anxiety. At times of high anxiety drugs and alcohol can be even more damaging than normal and should be avoided at all costs.

  8.  
  9. Talk to people. Talk to your parents about your fears. Talk to your friends. Talk to the people closest to you. You will find strength in opening up.

  10.  
  11. Spend time with the people who mean the most to you. Let them know how much they mean to you and how much you love them. Do things with them that make you feel happy, safe and secure.

  12.  
  13. Reach out for help. If you are feeling very overwhelmed by all that is happening get professional help. Talk to a doctor and/or get counseling. It is a sign of strength to reach out for help; it is not a weakness.

  14.  

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