Constant Worrying – Today’s Reality?

Cynthia Lopinto Feature Article 2 Comments 3,910 Views

By CYN LoPINTO
Editor-in-chief, gerontologist

As part of the Baby Boom generation, I have seen my share of national tragedies and historical news stories. I grew up with television and the nightly news showing real time pictures from the Vietnam War and covering stories including assassinations, racial unrest, women’s inequality and recessions. Most families also received a daily newspaper informing themselves even further on global and national issues.

In today’s world, news is continuous. Television news stations are on the air 24 hours a day. They cover the important stories as well as many unimportant ones in order to fill up their air time. Because there is so much competition between these news stations, ratings play a big role. They need to “grab” the viewer and keep them engaged. They use banners and graphics introducing stories as “breaking news” or “special report” to get spectators to pay attention. They report all stories at this heightened level, so it is difficult to determine what we should be paying attention to.

Besides the constant bombardment from television news, we have the internet (including Facebook and Twitter) making sure we are current on what is happening in the world. Every time we open up our computer, we see feeds and updates on breaking stories. We even get notifications on our cell phones. It is almost impossible to miss hearing about the latest headline or tragedy.

In our post-9/11 world, many of us find that it is really important to feel as though we are up to date on what is going on around us. We want to know as much as our neighbors do and have the necessary information to protect ourselves and our family.

However, I can’t help but wonder if this heightened awareness and fear of what could happen next is diminishing our quality of life.

When I talk to other people from my generation, I notice a common complaint. They express feelings of dread and worry about the future. Always being “on” and constantly monitoring the problems of the world, is taking its toll. I don’t believe the world is any worse off than it has been in past generations. Actually on many levels, it is a lot better. We just have way too much information being thrown in our lap, and it is hard to escape from it. Our stress seems to be at an all-time high.

It is important to make the conscious effort to disengage from the world every so often. We are a society that brags about functioning on little sleep and not taking our vacation days. We multi-task and most of us work more hours than our parents did. It is up to us to unplug and unwind. Find a way to get out in nature and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors. Say no to things that aren’t necessary and be clear about your boundaries. It isn’t a sign of weakness or selfishness to take some time for yourself. You deserve moments of peace and relaxation to help you move towards a better quality of life.

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Cynthia Lopinto

Cyn LoPinto, M.A. is a gerontologist focusing on significant issues affecting older adults and their families. Her areas of interest include lifestyle enrichment, family dynamics, and caregiver support. Cyn has worked in both the recreational and healthcare industries.