The uncertainty of the future, disturbing rumors, an atmosphere of despondency and intolerance… It seems that the crisis does not imply peace of mind. How can we not plunge into the cycle of disturbing thoughts and experiences? The psychotherapist Mark Sandomiersky tells.
Psychologies: How much does the crisis in the country infect us with negative emotions?
Mark Sandomiersky: From a psychological point of view, the economic and social crisis is a double trap of negative emotions, thoughts and expectations. The first trap is related to the fact that mass moods affect our psychological state, drag us along like a stormy stream. Therefore, the cultivation of decadent, depressive moods in society creates and deepens the problems of an individual. Trap number two: the more we ourselves allow ourselves during a crisis — that’s right! — surrender to the power of negative thoughts and anxious expectations, the more we get bogged down in this depressed emotional state.
But isn’t our anxiety natural now?
M. S .: At the initial stage of the crisis — up to about six months — anxiety, anxiety have at least some meaning: thanks to these experiences, our physical and mental resources are mobilized. But if the internal tension persists further, a psychological breakdown can occur. We stop being efficient, we lose interest in work, it is more difficult for us to cope with problems on our own. An anxious psychological state can be replaced by depression. Psychosomatic disorders appear, old diseases become aggravated, and even new ones develop. That is why it is so important to resist: to fight negative thoughts and decadent moods, exaggerated or unfounded worries, not allowing them to gain power over us. You need to understand that negative thoughts are just the tip of the iceberg. Firstly, these thoughts exist not only in verbal form, but also in non-verbal form — in the form of obsessive images. Secondly, they are accompanied by negative emotions, which are even more difficult to change than thoughts. Third, uncomfortable bodily symptoms. For some it is a heartbeat, for others it is a pain behind the sternum or a lump in the throat, because the body is a mirror of emotions. Therefore, you need to work with all these manifestations.
What to rely on when the future is impossible to plan?
M. S .: Only for yourself. On your knowledge, abilities, experience, family, friendly, professional ties, on your creativity — the ability to find an original solution, a non-standard way out in a difficult situation. The crisis motivates us to develop. It is very important to move from thoughts to action and thus take responsibility for your life.