… irgendwas ist immer

Hitzige Debatten über alkoholische Mischgetränke tauchen hier und da immer wieder auf. Eine einfache Potenzrechnung der möglichen Mischungen ergibt mit relativer Genauigkeit eine unglaublich lange Zahl. Das Problem scheint also, ein weiteres Mal, bei der unbegrenzten Wahlfreiheit zu liegen. Der Economist hat in dieser Sache eine aussagekräfitge Annonce eines holländischen (!) Vodka Hersetellers abgedruckt:

Wer mich fragt, das ist ohne jede Frage ein Statement für puren Genuss-Purismus. Ist das Problem der qualvollen Wahl damit gelöst? Vermutlich nicht, aber zumindest wird Mensch schneller betrunken.

Responding to the Tragedy at Virginia Tech

1.) When things like this happen we are thrown off balance and going on with the day to day business of life may be difficult, seem unimportant; but try to keep busy.  Do your best to stay focused on your projects and classroom assignments.  Research indicates keeping focused on day to day required tasks or routines helps mitigate the effects of stress.
2.) Seek out persons who care for and support you.  Share your reactions, thoughts and how the experience impacts you.
3.) Know that the reactions to trauma are normal responses to a very abnormal experience.  You may experience anxiety, sadness and/or anger. You may become fearful, more vigilant, have difficulty sleeping and feel the need to talk repeatedly about the events. Reactions to trauma occur in varying degrees and types for each person.
4.) Limit the amount of time that you watch details about the tragedy on TV. Over exposure to media coverage can increase your distress.
5.) “Baby yourself” – eat well, get your sleep, and nurture yourself.
6.) Try not to keep in your feelings. Express your feelings through art and music. Consider writing a journal.  These are healthy and adaptive ways to deal with trauma.
7.) Seek out someone to talk with at the counseling center.  
8.) Find activities that help reduce stress like physical exercise, meditation, etc.
9.) Consider sending cards, emails of support to Virginia Tech.  Helping others is a healthy way to manage our own feelings of powerlessness.
10.) If your ethnicity is the same or similar to the gunman you may feel a sense of collective responsibility or concerned that others perceive you as responsible. It is important to realize that you are not responsible! If you experience any form of harassment as a result of this event immediately report it to the university. This behavior is not tolerated!

It’s good to talk about it!  We are here for YOU…give us a call
Counseling Services and 24-hour Nurse Advice Line