Abnormal Anxiety

Apparently, there is an ongoing increase in mental health issues across the Australian population. This reflects a global trend documented by the World Health Organisation (WHO, 2025). When we look around at the state of global affairs, it is hardly surprising that this is happening. Take, for example, Trump's recent rumblings about taking over Greenland. There are definitely some White House hawks manipulating this madman to make such abhorrent land grabs to further 'America's greatness'. One of Trump's earliest divisive actions in office this time around was to withdraw the U.S. from the WHO. I find this act particularly repugnant and short-sighted. Trump, Putin and Netanyahu! It is no wonder that anxiety and depression are on the increase globally.

Meanwhile, in Australia, we have recently had the Bondi mass shooting. The repercussions and fallout from this hateful act are causing even more social division as the media seeks to sensationalise and politicians offer a range of knee-jerk reactions. The South Australian Premier's position on disinviting the Palestinian-Australian writer Randa Abdel-Fattah, resulting in the withdrawal of over 180 writers in protest, the resignation of all but one board member and the eventual cancellation of Adelaide Writers' Week, is a prime example of overreaction. His continual justifications for his interference are ridiculous, inflamatory and often contradictory.

As a non-parent, I wonder how parents are explaining the current state of world and local affairs to their children. Or do they do what I do and avoid the news in its various forms? Should we protect children from information that may contribute to anxiety and depression? It seems we are constantly bombarded with distressing news and information, making it difficult to shield children if this is what we choose to do.