As a journalist based in Karachi, I am always worried about how life in this city has turned into a nightmare, with no assurance of safety for adults or kids. I worry most of the time since I work in a newsroom and am always surrounded by news of all kinds.
I’m constantly on the lookout for any threats to my young children, especially in light of the frequent reports of child abuse. Since I can never be sure what will happen, I find it unsettling to think that they could be in danger at any moment.
However, the rapidly rising number of street crimes has put Karachi’s people’ lives in jeopardy.
I’m always worried about which path to take and which to avoid when I’m outside the home to make sure I don’t run across street thieves.
The concept of not feeling safe consumes my thoughts and makes me anxious. How can I feel comfortable living in this dangerous city?
I become anxious when I hear of kid abuse and street violence.
To my anxious father,
I understand that you’re anxious and freaked out about the perilous conditions in the city, and for good reason. Feeling overburdened and on edge all the time is quite reasonable, especially in light of the constant barrage of news reports about the risks your community may be hiding.
What then are your options?
What you can control is one of the most crucial methods to concentrate on.
You might choose to concentrate on the factors under your control or the factors beyond it.
Worry, anxiety, and a sense of powerlessness only grow when you continue to focus on things that you have no control over, including the outside world or other people’s behavior.
You do, however, have power over how you react to these pressures and the actions you take to protect your family’s safety as well as your own.
What may that appear like?
Reduce the amount of news you consume: It’s unlikely that your job as a journalist will prevent you from learning about news.
On the other hand, receiving bad news all the time can make you feel even more anxious. Try reducing the amount of news you consume in whatever way you can, and avoid hearing it when you’re with family or right before bed.
Create safety strategies: How could you possibly make sure your children are as safe as possible while you are away? Maybe get in touch with a reputable daycare or a relative who could watch your children while you’re away? Look into the potential of getting them to collaborate with you.
