Stress on the Home Front

As U.S. soldiers wage war in Iraq, many loved ones at home are battling stress. Signs of stress can include anxiety, muscle tension, headaches, increased heart rate and blood pressure or loss of concentration. "People have different ways of coping," says UAB psychologist Joshua Klapow, Ph.D. "For some, talking and being around family is helpful, but for others, talking produces more anxiety. Others resort to negative ways of coping, such as overeating, drinking alcohol or smoking." Klapow offers these tips: "Get adequate sleep and eat well, because stress compromises the immune system; exercise or try deep breathing exercises; stay informed of news events about the war, but don't become paralyzed by the news. If stress becomes unmanageable, seek professional help."