With the global pandemic and current political tensions, many are feeling both overwhelmed and fatigued by the news cycle. It can be difficult to take a step back or find a healthy way to cope, but with mindfulness and proper support, your feelings of stress and dread can be considerably lessened.

Be Mindful Of Your Media Consumption And Screen Time

With features like news alert triggers and user-specific notifications, social media is intentionally addictive. User attention is an effective currency in the world of media. In fact, one study revealed that Americans check their phone anywhere from 80 to 300 times a day, and that’s just while on vacation.

With the state of the world as it currently stands, the inundation of breaking and high-stress news combined with the addictive nature of social media directly and negatively impacts our mental health. In fact, experts have dubbed this phenomenon as “doom scrolling“. This mindless habit reinforces negative thoughts and can greatly affect your mental health, especially for those already prone to feelings of anxiety or depression.

To combat this, try being mindful of both your media consumption and your screen time. Take note of the people and media you follow and engage with and consider the feelings they invoke. For those that consistently invoke anger, sadness, or distress, it may be time to take a break or hit the “unfollow” button. It‘s also helpful to limit your screen time so you are less prone to doom scroll or engage in reactive behaviors.

Take Time To Identify Your Stressors

Identifying your stressors is also a key competent to managing current event stress and fatigue. If you have a specific trauma or strong emotional tie related to a trending current event, it may be helpful to block those keywords from your social media or learn to turn away from those triggering headlines.

For example, in the height of the Me Too movement, it was discovered that many women found reading stories or headlines related to sexual assault triggered memories and emotions of their own traumatic experiences and found it difficult to engage in these conversations or stories. It is important to note that these reactions are completely normal, and once you can identify your triggers, you can then take steps to practice healthy habits and stress management.

Practice Healthy Habits And Healthy Stress Management

Whether it’s limiting conversation around current events, being mindful of screen time, or picking up a new hobby, practicing consistent and healthy stress management is an effective tactic to managing current event stress or fatigue.

Be especially mindful if you are turning towards drugs or alcohol to cope. As noted during the COVID-19 shutdown, our nation saw an alarming increase in alcohol consumption with Neilson reporting a 54% national increase in alcohol sales. Though it may provide temporary feelings of relief, these methods will only serve to negatively impact your mental health further.

Seek Professional Assistance

Leaning into self-awareness and unlearning unhealthy behaviors can seem like daunting work, especially if you are experiencing increased anxiety or depression. Thankfully, trained therapists are now more accessible through telehealth counseling and they are here to support your journey toward a better tomorrow.

A better tomorrow awaits! Call 479-640-7236 or email info@ics-ark.com to schedule your appointment.