How to Stay Calm in the Chaos of the World
A therapist I follow on instagram posted the other day saying “if your nervous system has been running on caffeine and existential dread lately, congratulations. You’re responding appropriately to current events.”
24/7 News Overload
The world has felt increasingly overwhelming the last few years- the pandemic, racism, climate crises, politics- carrying emotional weight that affects us as individuals and communities. For many of us, social media has become the primary gateway to these stories. A recent study showed that more than half of U.S. adults get at least some of their news from social media, which goes to show how embedded these platforms are in our modern news consumption. Gone are the days where news only arrived at set times, like the morning paper and the evening news, allowing us to intentionally tune in, or pick up and read. Now we consume it continuously through our social feeds, news notifications and daily scrolling, making news exposure an ambient part of our online lives.
In just one minute of scrolling, you will likely see: a funny dog video; someone dying in a crash; a millionaire flexing wealth; real footage of a warzone; someone raving about their skin care routine/gut microbiome health/latest hydration fixation; a heated political rant. Please keep this in mind- while this may be our new “normal,” it’s not normal.
The American Psychological Association warns us that media overload is contributing to heightened stress, emotional exhaustion, and difficulty disengaging from negative content. Many of us are feeling like we have to stay informed but are emotionally depleted in doing so. Feeling bad about what’s happening in the world is a normal reaction. It’s ok if you’re feeling grief over what’s been lost, anxious about what’s going to happen next, or guilty for not doing more.
Taking Care of our Mental Health in the Chaos
So how can we make sure we’re taking care of our mental health, finding the balance, staying informed, while also disconnecting to ensure we’re “present?” Beats me. HOWEVER. There are some tried and true tips to help make sure we’re keeping ourselves in check.
Set limits on your news and social media time. Looking at the news a few hours a week is a great way to stay informed. Looking at the news nonstop is a great way to get depressed.
Focus on the things you can control. We each have our own circle of influence. This depends on things like where you live, what skills or knowledge you have, whether you have more time than money, or money than time.
Make time for self-care. If you take the time to take care of you, you’ll have more of yourself to give when you’re ready.
Make space for gratitude. There is still so much beauty and good in this world. You don’t have to ignore the bad things to appreciate the good things.
Surround yourself with like-minded people. Look at subreddits or hashtags for causes to follow. Look for volunteer opportunities. Find a club or support group in your area- or start one!
One Step at a Time
The world won’t get better just by talking about it, but talking about it is a great first step. And “one step at a time” is exactly how things get better.
How The Mind Spot Can Help
Do you need help finding calm in the chaotic, overwhelming 24/7 news world? Make an appointment with Becky Soderberg or one of our counselors today. Meet Our Counselors
*Becky is supervised by Barbie Atkinson, LPC-S