Soaring War Anxiety in Germany: A Modern-Day Concern
Anxiety over war is escalating in Germany among therapists - Germany Experiences Anxiety Over Possible Armed Conflict
In the shadow of modern conflicts like those in Ukraine and the Middle East, war anxiety emerges as a looming threat in present-day Germany, eight decades after World War II. Mathias Heinicke, a psychotherapist and the head of the Association of Contract Psychotherapists, observes a steady rise in war anxiety among the populace.
"As conflicts inch closer, war anxiety snowballs," he expressed to the German Press Agency. In his practice, he sees a rise in patients grappling with concerns and future apprehensions due to conflicts, with Ukraine's proximity in Europe serving as a significant factor.
Apart from geographical proximity, Heinicke highlights the influence of news, images, and social media on war anxiety. He says, "The images we witness - lifeless bodies, demolished homes, kids' hospitals bombarded - are deeply unsettling."
War anxiety manifests in distinct ways
Unlike in the past when one could switch off the radio or TV, contemporary life exposes us to an unending barrage of new information, news, images, and videos through smartphones. Social media platforms, "where a torrent of images is shared without filters or reflections," can significantly amplify war anxiety, destruction, and fears about the future.
War anxiety is not a set diagnosis in psychotherapy. Symptoms can range widely, including tension, nervousness, constant worry, panic attacks, headaches, irregular heart rhythms, or irritability.
Heinicke suggests those at risk of war anxiety and wishing to escape such content to filter their channels. "I don't need to watch everything that's theoretically possible." In an individual's journey, it's essential to establish boundaries or selectively filter content.
Insights from Enrichment Data
- Europe, beyond Germany, shares rising concerns about military conflict due to global political instability, economic pressures, and refugee and migration issues, exacerbating anxious feelings.
- Individual coping strategies such as seeking information, engaging in community activities, and practicing stress-reduction techniques can alleviate feelings of war anxiety.
- Collective coping strategies, including public awareness campaigns, support for refugees and migrants, and diplomatic efforts, can disrupt war anxiety's sources and foster a more peaceful environment.
The community can implement policies to limit exposure to distressing content, preventing an escalation of war anxiety, as part of a comprehensive community policy. In addition, employers can incorporate health-and-wellness programs that prioritize mental health, providing employees with resources to manage war anxiety, as part of an employment policy.
Science can contribute to understanding war anxiety better by studying its psychological and neurological impacts, aiding in the development of effective treatment strategies and preventative measures. Meanwhile, encouraging open communication, empathy, and mutual support within social circles can help individuals cope with war anxiety and promote mental health and wellness.
