When first asked to write on the topic of managing stress and anxiety during these uncertain times, I hesitated, and rightly so. Not only do we all cope with stress and anxiety differently, our individual life circumstances vary. The war on terrorism and it�s affect on our economy are a challenge that effect each and everyone of us in some way, yet the methods and means of how we can remain positive and productive during these times will be best answered on an individual basis. There is no �mass� model. Recent conferences within the mental health field, are now finding that the experience of 9/11 has redefined trauma, i.e. severe, and critical.

So with this preface in mind, the question then becomes, as an aromatherapy community, how do we use this complementary modality, Aromatherapy, to support our own well-being, our families, and others who seek our counsel during these trying times. To this end, I offer some considerations within a holistic context.

The feelings of powerlessness and uncertainty are to be expected and are healthy response in times of transition. We are all uncomfortable to some degree or another when we aren�t certain of outcomes. The following are some considerations you may find useful.

Be prepared:

There are websites, such as Red Cross, that make great suggestions on how to be individually prepared. Ask questions in your work environment. Know the evacuation plan. Ask questions of your state and local government, so you know your community responses, Information is power. When feeling powerless and uncertainty arise, one can react by being prepared. This may naturally also include essential oils in your �first aid kit�.

Be familiar with the signs of stress and anxiety.

To review some major indicators; changes in the following behaviors to either extreme are noteworthy and may benefit from professional psychological intervention:

Sleeping Habits: Either more sleeping than usual, or interrupted sleep/insomnia;

Eating Habits: Either excessive eating, or the opposite, lack of appetite;

Excessive use of Drugs or Alcohol, used to �self-medicate� as a mechanism

for dealing with anxiety and stress;

Concentration: Lack of ability to concentrate, at work or preoccupation which interferes with tasks necessary for activities of daily living;

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