Healthy Activism

   Being able to participate over the long-term means structuring a life to have some enjoyment and breaks from stressful activities. Writers and reporters in particular are prone to depression because of grim subject matter, establishment hostility, and isolation. Iris Chang and Gary Webb are two of the most significant casualties, but stress also shortened the lives of Lewis Hill and Juzo Itami. Stress can come from many parts of life, for both activists and the apolitical.

Festive groups, such as Code Pink, can be uplifting. Friends, family, hobbies, and vacations should be part of life. If stress becomes severe, or grows quickly, then professional counseling may be best. Many employers provide support resources. From overcoming a fear of flying to coping with bereavement, counseling is common and often effective.

There are many ways to handle stress and other emotional difficulties, and some approaches pushed by the establishment are harmful. Still, making our mental and physical health a priority is important for ourselves and others. (Seeking emotional perfection is not usually a wise goal, however.)

  

healthy diet

Eating well is quite important for mental alertness and emotional stability. High sugar diets give highs and lows as well as increasing the chance of diabetes. Alcohol damages many of the body's organs and requires general caution.




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exercise

Regular exercise is important for both physical and mental health. It can reduce stress and depression. Some employers even offer fitness center memberships.

Consulting with a doctor may be needed before beginning an exercise program. Easing into a regular routine is best. Fitness center staff members are often valuable.




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meditation

Meditation and related practices are often recommended as methods for reducing stress. Beginning is usually simple. Generally practice is important to make it valuable.




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The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook


This is a popular book by Edmond J. Bourne on methods for relieving strong stress. Bourne has related books as well.





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counseling

Professional psychologists can be quite valuable in helping a person to reduce problems. The value will vary with the psychologist and the person receiving assistance, but it can be helpful.

In some cultures there is both a disdain for advisors from outside the family and a strong stigma against admitting difficulties. Care should be used when suggesting counseling (with anybody). Finding a counselor who will be sensitive to cultural differences will be important as well.




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psychoactive medications

Sometimes prescription (or even OTC) sedatives and related substances may reduce stress. People should research them carefully, and follow warnings. Combining some medications with alcohol is quite dangerous. Warnings of possible addiction should be heeded.

Alcohol in particular is bad for stress because of its health effects and chance of addiction.

There is a lot of cynicism about the high rates of prescriptions for mood altering medications. Often medication becomes the only way busy doctors will attempt to handle a problem. Some medications mean high profits for corporations, and this drives aggressive advertising. Long-term use should be avoided in favor of problem resolution and improvements in the quality of life.




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(C) 2008 Kevin Pardo