Tune Into You and Tune Out Negativity
Tuning into local, national and global news of late can be a hazard to your mental health. When news coverage talks of disease, devastation and despair – sometimes it feels like too much. What can you do when global events lead to feelings of frustration, powerlessness or sadness?
While our upside-down world continues to turn, it’s important to find a way to right yourself and cope with all that continues to be beyond comprehension. There are ways to tune in, explore what you are feeling and cope.
Increasing Need for Mental Health Care
Studies have shown that consuming negative news content affects general well-being. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, OCD, substance abuse and other mental health disorders are on the rise.
I am noticing this unfortunate trend firsthand, as my private practice is increasingly busy, and referrals have increased. Despite efforts to provide more care to those in need, the demand for mental healthcare is increasing exponentially, leaving providers to try to keep up.
While events in the news are resulting in more people seeking care, the good news is the fact that people are seeking support. Many are overcoming their hesitancy in seeking therapy. More young individuals are open and vocal about their mental health struggles, and are seeking treatment to ensure their voices are heard and issues are being addressed.
Mental Health Resources: Therapy, Podcasts, Books
If you have a therapist that you see regularly – bravo! I am obviously a firm believer in seeking professional support to explore what you are feeling, experiencing or fearing during times of chaos, and in your everyday life.
If you have yet to seek support, there is no issue or problem too small to explore. Seek a provider with whom you have a good rapport – and one who specializes in your issue or problem – there are experts in everything from anxiety to depression and more. I myself specialize in treating individuals with anxiety disorders, eating disorders and trauma.
I have also noticed more podcasts and self-help books addressing mental health than ever before. My two favorite podcasts that I would recommend are Psychologists Off the Clock and Ten Percent Happier. Psychologists Off the Clock is hosted by three clinicians who discuss ideas to help you flourish in your work, relationships and health. Dan Harris, the host of Ten Percent Happier offers interviews with notables who share their mental health journeys; Harris is a firm believer in meditation for improved mental health.
If you prefer books, I suggest author Brene Brown, an expert on living your authentic life. Check out Atlas of the Heart and The Gifts of Imperfection for starters. There are so many other podcasts, books, Ted Talks, and more to choose from to help you try to make sense of living in the world around us.
Practical Tips for Improving Mental Health
What can you do when the news gets to be too much? First, I suggest limiting your exposure. Turn off your news app, and put down your phone.
Talk and explore what you are feeling – with your therapist. With a partner. With a friend. With someone you trust.
Find an outlet – what do you love to do – that you get lost in time? It might be gardening, reading the latest bestseller, or trekking through the woods with your pup. Personally, I head to the beach in Gloucester where I can spend several hours soaking in the sun and dipping into the (frigid) water when the heat becomes too much! It is my ultimate form of self-care.
I asked some of my clients what they do to improve and manage their mental health. The following are tips they shared; perhaps one of these will become your new favorite, too:
“I love moving my body! It’s fun, satisfying and helps both my physical and mental health. I try to do some joyful movements every day. My personal favorite is dancing to 80’s music.”
“I make sure to leave my house every day. Whether I go out to see a friend for lunch or coffee, or go to my neighborhood bookstore, it’s important to see people and get fresh air.”
“I love to cook. It’s fun, satisfying, and I can be creative. Try a new dish, be creative, and don’t worry about the outcome.”
“Take a ride to a new place and see something different.”
“It’s really important for me to see my therapist. I have so much on my mind that just having someone to talk to while seeking guidance is a life saver.”
“Daily journaling helps me get my thoughts on paper. I often use journal prompts because it’s easier to come up with things to write about with thought-starters.”
“I love the Calm app. Meditation first thing in the morning helps me feel grounded and ready to take on the day.”
I love each and every one of these tips. They are simple, easy, and I bet that they will help you feel a sense of calm. Choose one, try it out several times a week, and see how you feel after 30 days. Let me know what you do to find peace during these troubling times – take time to nourish your mind and overall mental health.