This summer’s continuous severe weather is having an impact on the mental health of Chicago-area residents.
From the cost of cleanup to the stress of canceling plans, compounding emotions can build anxiety.
Dr. Debra Kissen, CEO and founder of Light on Anxiety Treatment Centers in Chicago, spoke with NBC Chicago about what people can do to protect their mental health during the tumultuous weather.
“With the collective mental health we are all experiencing, it does highlight this sense of instability,” said Kissen. “When life feels uncertain, we want to grab the reins.”
Acknowledging the weather is out of our control and giving yourself grace can be helpful, Kissen advised.
She also says to get organized.
“Pick a time of day that you’re your most locked in to deal with life’s administrative aspects of weather anxiety,” said Kissen.
Getting a few items checked off the to-do list can be helpful, Kissen said, but don’t get bogged down with the details.
“What often happens is we end up stuck in a worry cycle,” she said, “so, choosing action, but trying to not overwhelm yourself with the perfect action.”
If you “catch yourself stuck,” Kissen says to try asking yourself, “what is one baby step I can do?”
Checking things off the list, one at a time, can bring a sense of accomplishment, instead of stressing about getting it all done at once, she said.
She adds that fixating on things that are out of our control can also lead to anxiety and encourages people to find a balance.
“Looking at what are the different behaviors that I’m engaging in to feel in control in uncertain weather? Some of them are healthy, like check the weather, maybe bring an umbrella. But when does it cross over to over-safety behaviors?”