MEMO OF THE MONTH.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Monday, August 16,1999

Dear Assignment Editor/Reporter

As you are aware, for weeks the ongoing story of the drought in the greater Washington metropolitan area has understandably dominated local news coverage. While the media have explored many interesting facets surrounding this continuing story; little has been reported about the emotional mess caused by the deepening drought, or things the public can do to ease yet another source of tension in their every day lives.

As recently as this week, a waiter at a restaurant I frequent lamented that he had just bought a new home and was fearful he would lose the hundreds of dollars he had invested new sod. "I'm stressed," he said. I suspect he is not alone. For many people time spent with their beloved lawns, washing their cars on the weekend, or taking that long hot shower at week's end are cherished moments that help stave off the tensions of Life. So, what does one do, when things that were once a tension reliever are now yet another source of frustration? Are there activities or things people can do to reduce drought-related stress? Yes.

"For people under water restrictions either voluntary or mandated, there are things people can do to reduce the stress that this might bring. The general concept is to find a project that is both socially useful, as well as personally gratifying. Something that will help turn a negative into a positive experience. The idea is along the vein of the advice of making lemonade if someone gives you lemons," says Melvyn Haas M.D. associate directs, Medical Affairs, for the federal Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS). CMHS, an operating division with the U.S...