During a summer of what seems to be unprecedented news
coverage of unimaginable attacks and violent tragedies, we can find ourselves
exhausted and overwhelmed. How is it possible to process the bad news when it
just keeps coming? If we intensely immerse ourselves in every harrowing
headline, we will put our own mind and body at risk. In this day in age, we
need to learn how to become our own gatekeepers and take care of ourselves when
it comes to unlimited access to media outlets.
Viewing traumatic images and videos can cause vicarious
personal trauma. Watching a specific clip over and over for instance, could
even cause post-traumatic stress, in which the viewer would need to seek
professional help. Most of us do not do that. Instead we change our routines
out of fear, isolate or let the feeling simmer, effecting our daily lives in a
sideways manner. If you are not going to seek professional help, here are some
ways you process the news in a healthy way when it gets bleak.
Limit what you watch
You want to stay informed, but not
binge. During times of tragedy, the news is everywhere, on our phones, TVs,
computers and radios. Regulate how much time you spend consuming the
information, and pay attention to the outlets as well. News programs will edit
or censor graphic images, whereas the raw footage is usually available online.
You may want to avoid that.
Take time for pleasure and comfort
It is ok to laugh and escape
during times of trouble, it is actually healthy. Completely staying away from
bad news or entirely indulging is unbalanced. Cultivating positive feelings and
energy in your personal life, is not only good for you, it’s good for the
community around you. You are also more likely to lend a helping hand or make a
donation to the cause that worries you, when you yourself are feeling balanced
and healthy.
Do not avoid the feelings
Let your emotional reactions to
bad news teach you something. Feelings of guilt, sadness and confusion about
traumatic, harrowing issues need to be observed and felt. They can teach us
about compassion and help us confront our own guilt or shame. If you allow sad
news to wash over you, it can open up your mind and heart to a deeper
understanding of the world.
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