Local clinical psychologist discusses emotional impact of eclipse [Video]

If you have strong feelings about the eclipse tomorrow, you’re not alone.

The awe-inspiring natural phenomenon can trigger a wide range of emotions, from amazement to anxiety. Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Nicole Ranttila says the abnormality of the event can bring unexpected reactions that are important to both recognize and embrace.

“For people who may be prone to anxiety, or have trouble with unpredictability, it could trigger a lot of feelings of unease and restlessness. For some people, the excess excitement of emotions, that can be a trigger for difficulty as well,” Dr. Ranttila notes.

Dr. Ranttila adds that children may have a harder time with emotional awareness and control, so you may want to check in with how they’re feeling before and during the solar event.

“Little ones are always looking to us to …