The Paris attacks. The downing of a Russian airplane in Egypt. Terrorist strikes in Beirut and Nigeria. Threatening videos and politicians declaring Americans are at risk from radical suicide bombers.

Mental-health experts fear the latest wave of terrorist attacks, and disturbing media images, is taking as serious toll on many Americans with psychological issues, The New York Times reports. 

Terrorism fills even healthy individuals with anxiety, notes Anne Marie Albano, a clinical psychologist and the director of the Columbia University Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders, said in an interview.

“It’s becoming sort of everyday life,” Albano said, “knowing that we cannot predict with good accuracy at all when something may happen.”

If you’re feeling anxious, here are a few ways to cope, experts say:

Focus on facts. Humans are bad at assessing risk, says Martin Seif, a psychologist who specializes in treating anxiety disorders. When we are fearful, it’s harder to keep perspective on risks that aren’t very likely to affect you — such dying in a plane crash or a terrorist attack.

Limit exposure. Constant focus on incremental updates on social media can heighten your anxiety. While it’s important to stay informed on major news events, checking in on Facebook and Twitter every 10 minutes can do more harm than good by increasing your fears.

Take time to de-stress. A guide to dealing with terrorism by the Federal Bureau of Investigation encourages simply closing your eyes and taking deep breaths to feel calmer when you’re stressed by world events. Taking a walk, exercising, or talking to a close friend can also help.

Create an emergency plan. Draft a plan that details how you’ll get in contact with your family if something should happen, in the way of a tragedy. But keep in mind you likely will not need it, Albano said.

Talk to your kids. If you have children, the American Psychological Association recommends asking them how they are feeling about the news and reassure them that they are safe.

Maintain daily routines. Albano said that a primary worry in the field of psychology is people changing their daily activities — such as staying home — to stay safe. “Terrorists thrive on this kind of thing,” she added. “They want to see the population change their practices.” Her advice: Maintain daily routines that enables you to live your life normally.

Albano praised the people of Paris for returning to cafes after last week’s attacks.
“That was a message to us from [New York City Mayor Rudy] Giuliani after 9/11,” she recalled. “ ‘Get back to the ballgames. Get out there. Let’s go.’ ”