Take These Steps to Manage Moods Affected by Political and Societal News
Previously, I discussed the psychological stress and physical cost of today’s 24/7 news cycle. Our attachment to our devices has helped put us in a state of perpetual (real or perceived) crisis. This can’t help but have a major influence on our wellbeing and our moods.
Things naturally escalate when you consider that practically everyone we interact with is trying to manage moods affected by political and societal news. The current polarization and bombardment of the headlines is exhausting.
Our minds are calling out for a break. That’s what we’ll focus on here. No matter how chaotic life is 2020 may feel, there are productive action steps you can take to temper the impact.
To Recap: 2020 Changed Us
As we touched on in the previous post, 2020 has been marked by an extraordinary combination of national and world events. From the COVID-19 pandemic and its fallout (health, economics, isolation, etc.), widespread division and unrest, natural disasters, and more, we all have our plates full. More accurately, our plates are overflowing with no end in sight.
The outcome is a combination of psychological and physical distress. We may feel untethered and, as a result, our moods can feel beyond our control.
There is some good news, though. We can assume enough control to manage this overflow of anxiety and tension. It begins with some self-help steps accessible to everyone.
5 Basic Steps You Can Take to Manage Moods Affected by Political and Societal News
1. Practice Daily Self-Care
You’ll need a strong foundation and self-care is an excellent place to start. Taking care of the basics puts you in a much stronger position to juggle all that 2020 is throwing at you. Factors to keep in mind:
- Stress management and relaxation techniques
- Regular sleep patterns
- Daily exercise and activity
- Healthy eating habits
- Safe socialization
2. Go on Regular Digital Fasts
This will be the easiest step to identify. But it may be the most difficult to implement. Phones are addictive by design but, with patience, you can ease yourself into a healthier routine.
If you’re living with family or roommates, team up to turn these fasts into a group effort. During your non-digital time, you can do one of the activities below.
3. Seek Out Non-Digital Activities
As alluring as those devices can be, you do have many other options and interests you can indulge in to create balance. Suggestions: board games, read real books, taking a walk, cleaning, and/or rearranging your home, creative projects, and more.
4. Connect With Others Trying to Cope
We’re all having a tough year. This is a tough reality to accept but it contains a silver lining. Others share your struggle. They can relate, they need help, and they (and you) will do better if you make it a collective effort. Use whatever safe form of communication you can but do not isolate or withdraw.
5. Help Those in Need
There may be more vulnerable people (and animals) around now than ever before. Studies show that helpers enjoy better physical and emotional well-being because of their altruism. Look around and find ways to safely use your skills to make someone else’s life a little easier.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
This has been a year of feeling isolated. However, when it comes to healing and recovery, you don’t have to go it alone. Thanks to virtual therapy, you can have access to an experienced counselor from the comfort of your own home.
Working with a skilled guide is a proven path toward managing life’s ups and downs — even in a year as daunting as 2020! Please read more about anxiety counseling. When you’re ready, call to set up a consultation. Together, we’ll explore how I can help you manage the moods and challenges you’re facing.