The September 11 Syndrome: Seven Steps to Getting a Grip in Uncertain Times

In this text, Harriet Braiker arms readers with proven techniques for developing psychological hardiness and emotional resiliency. She imparts the keys to regaining a sense of control over life and the freedom of mind to travel and conduct business.

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Everyday life for ordinary citizens has become fraught with danger and the real threat of attack. Suddenly fear of flying, fear of crowded places, anxiety over heights, subways, public transportation, and even opening the mail cannot be dismissed as mere phobias. We are told to "get back to a normal routine" at the same time we are told to "be on your highest alert for attack" - it's no wonder we are fearful and anxiety-ridden. But at least for the near future, we must learn to manage our fears and anxieties or else become paralyzed by them and become unable to live our lives. Renowned psychologist Harriet Braiker presents 10 methods her patients have used successfully to reclaim their lives by managing stress in anxiety in ways that allow them to be vigilant to potential dangers and at the same time carry on their day-to-day business and personal affairs and plan for the future. Dr. Braiker presents readers the keys to psychological hardiness and resiliency - using proven techniques used by survivors of trauma and people who "thrive" on stress.
Many people actually become energized and more effective in times of stress - for instance, Mayor Rudy Guiliani has performed at the top of his game during the WTC disaster, and even his staunchest critics have praised his actions. Braiker shows how to maintain the necessary mindset readers need in order to regain freedom of travel, commerce, and everyday joys. Her strategies include advice on how to focus on things you can control, instead of on things you can't. She tells readers that anxiety is not necessarily something they must avoid - that in fact, anxiety can facilitate performance if it can be kept at just the right level. This book will show how to keep that anxiety level in check.