Lately it seems as if each day brings a new piece of tragic or upsetting news – mass shootings, Roe v Wade being overturned, the ongoing war in Ukraine, the January 6th hearings and the enduring Covid pandemic.
In the past several months more than a few clients have said, “It feels like the world is on fire.” We agree. These are absolutely unprecedented and challenging times.
So, how do we cope?
First, it’s important to acknowledge how upsetting the news is and be honest with ourselves about how we feel about it. Give yourself permission to be angry, sad, frustrated or any other feelings you may have. Vent to those closest to you.
Second, while we can all feel helpless at times, it’s critical to remind yourself of the small ways in which you can make a difference -- donating your money or time to causes that are important to you, for example.
Third, put a cap on the amount of news you consume. A good rule of thumb is to spend just enough time watching or listening to the news so that you feel informed. That can be as little as 20 minutes a day.
Lastly, limit your involvement on social media as it relates to the news. Reading opposing political views, for example, can incite us and lead to a hostile and unproductive back-and-forth.