When the News is Too Much: Coping With Life Stressors

08 Jan When the News is Too Much: Coping With Life Stressors

Who would have imagined just six days into a new year we would be experiencing the embarrassing historical moment that we all experienced on January 6, 2021? This was not the blog I intended to post because I, like most American’s use the fresh start of the new year to set intentions, document goals and a plan to execute. However, as we witnessed what I consider a domestic terror attack in the United States at the U.S. Capitol this past week, I am reminded that we can not predict the future nor can we control other people. I was furious, angry, and appalled. At some point I even internalized some of the blatant racism and unjust acts that “I”, that “WE” witnessed on camera as I was glued to the television. I’m talking floored! I could not believe what I was watching as I recollected on what appeared to be opposite reactions of how law enforcement responded to protest just six months prior as Black people marched with their allies demanding to matter.  With that said, we must prepare for ways to deal with life circumstances that may trigger us emotionally, mentally and perhaps even spiritually. As a mental health professional and advocate for self-care, I had to take a step back and practice what I encourage others to do.

When life becomes overwhelming, here is list of 5 things you can do to reset. You can take all or some to help you to get a grasp on how you are feeling, reduce anxiety and refocus.

• Prayer – As a Christian, when I feel like life is just too much, my goal is to seek the guidance of God. Yes, I said the goal because I am human, and God ain’t done with me yet. (I digress). When I don’t seek guidance from God, I find myself going down a rabbit hole of negativity and anger. When I am going down that rabbit hole, am not leaning on God. The word of God says to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” Proverbs 3:5. Keep a scripture, a mantra or a quote available to help you refocus..

• Disconnect – We are a generation that thrives on technology. We have information at our fingertips. The downside is that we are so connected, that our brains are on information overload. When a day like January 6, 2021 and a year like “2020” grabs hold of us, it’s difficult to let go. That kind of connection induces anxiety, stress and could attribute to feelings of depression. I understand that we may want to be informed, but trust me, the news and your social media connections will recycle and refresh so when you resume, you can still be in the know.  Give yourself an hour or more to disconnect.

• Exercise – That anger and disgust that you witnessed is understandable. Put that energy into you. Exercise is known to reduce stress, allows an opportunity to redirect energy and release endorphins that support feelings of positivity.

• Get some fresh air – Breath in, hold, and breath out. Fresh air and sunshine relieves stress and promotes health and well-being. Lastly, going outside helps to refocus by diverting your attention to nature, and thus calming the body.

• Process how you are feeling – Talk to your therapist about how current events may be impacting you. Also, process your feelings with friends or loved ones so that you can get the support that you need. This is an opportune time to create community because we are going through this trauma together. Lastly, this is an opportune time to journal what you are a feeling as an additional outlet to process your feelings.

• Do something that you enjoy – Color, spend time with loved ones, go to the beach, dance, listen to music, arts and crafts, or read (there are a plethora of options). Do something that you find pleasure in. Self-Care Advocacy’s activity book is a great way to “Free Your Mind”. The activity book can be purchased in the Self-Care Shop on the website. When you focus on the positive you are better able to cope with life stressors and improve overall well-being.

I hope this was a helpful read and provided options for you to decompress when life becomes overwhelming. If you like this blog please comment, like and share. To get blogs sent directly to your email, sign up for the newsletter on the home page at www.selfcareadvocacy.com. I would love to connect with you.