How To Find Relief From Trauma Caused by Watching the News

Nine solutions to preserve your mental health.

The news is devastating. To see families scurrying to flee cities that a few days ago were safe places to live can’t help but pull at your heartstrings.

When you have bipolar disorder, you experience intense emotions every day. The times when you see terrible events unfolding in the world, the trauma feels so severe that it’s almost like it’s happening to you. Overwhelming thoughts can disrupt your sleep, concentration, and relationships.

Is there anything you can do to help cope with these traumatic emotions? Here are nine things that have helped me find relief from trauma caused by watching the news.

1. Admit the impact

The first step to combating the trauma caused by watching the news is to admit the impact it’s having on you. Check in with yourself and pay attention to what you’re thinking and feeling.

It can be really tough to admit that the events of the world are causing you trauma. You may feel like you’re being too sensitive or that you should just “toughen up.” But recognizing the pain that is being caused by the news is the first step in healing.

2. Know your source

It’s important to know your source of information. Are you getting your news from a reputable, unbiased source? Or are you getting it from a friend who is always posting doom and gloom articles?

I try to stick to reputable sources, like the BBC and The Associated Press. It’s also helpful to read articles from a variety of trusted sources so that you can get a well-rounded view of the news.

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3. Set boundaries

It’s important to set boundaries with the news. You don’t want it to consume your life and thoughts completely. Time limits help a lot, and I restrict myself to reading or watching the news in 10 minute increments and no more than twice a day.

I like to have a rule that I won’t check the news until after I’ve spent time on positive endeavors such as writing new content or reading my Bible. This way, I’m not inundated with news stories as soon as I start my day.

4. Stick to a routine

Sticking to a routine is really helpful when the news is causing trauma. It gives you a sense of normalcy and helps to keep your mind occupied.

For me, this means sticking to my usual bedtime and wake-up time, eating my usual meals, and spending time on my usual hobbies. Nothing gives me more piece than working in my yard.

Of course, it’s also essential you take your medications at the same time every day. Medication is never more important than when the world is throwing increased anxiety your way.

5. Feel the feels

It’s okay to feel the feels in coping with the news. Trauma can cause a lot of intense emotions, and it’s important to allow yourself to experience them.

I find I need to spend time grieving when the news is unsettling. I’ll watch sad movies, listen to sad songs, and let myself cry or be angry for a while. It’s not healthy to bottle up your emotions, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to feel them.

6. Exercise

One of the best things you can do to deal with the trauma caused by watching the news is to put your body in motion. Exercise is a great way to deal with the stress current world events are creating. It releases endorphins, which help to improve your mood, and it’s a great way to burn off some of that excess energy.

I enjoy walking when I’m feeling overwhelmed by the news. Even when there’s not enough energy to walk far, spending time outdoors helps me let go of the pain I’m feeling inside.

7. Journaling

Journaling is another great way to deal with the trauma of watching the news. It allows you to process your thoughts and feelings in a safe place.

I find it helpful to write down what I’m feeling, the events that are causing me stress, and any ideas I have for how to cope. This helps me to see my progress over time and allows me to reflect on how I’ve coped in the past.

8. Reach out to others for support

Reaching out to others for support is one of the most important things you can do when watching the news is causing trauma. It’s okay to admit that you’re struggling and need help.

I find it helpful to talk to my friends and family about what I’m feeling. I also enjoy talking to other people who are struggling with the news. It’s comforting to know that I’m not alone in this trial.

9. Take care of yourself

Finally, it’s essential that you take care of yourself when watching the news is causing trauma. This means getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding excess caffeine and alcohol.

Self-care is so important when we’re feeling overwhelmed. Make sure you take time for yourself to relax and rejuvenate.

The events of the world can be overwhelming and have a lasting impact on our mental health. There are ways to find relief from this type of trauma, including knowing your sources, setting boundaries, sticking to a routine, feeling the feels, exercising, journaling, and reaching out to others for support. By following these tips, you can find some peace amid all the chaos.

Until next time, keep fighting.