Managing Mental Health in a World of Constant Information  

In today’s world, it’s hard to escape the constant inundation of information via our phones and televisions. There is a constant stream of politically charged headlines and catastrophic world events going across our screens. As we quickly approach the upcoming election, tensions are high and many citizens are feeling the weight of that increased tension. With the overall political climate and recent extreme weather events, we are constantly scrolling past posts and videos that trigger strong emotions. While easy access to information can be seen as a great thing, sometimes it is detrimental to our mental health.   

Survival Mode…

The intersection of political uncertainty and extreme weather events can ignite survival mode in those affected. Living through a natural disaster or even the fear of having to live through one, creates anxiety around safety, security, and freedom. Oftentimes, we see this fear presented in two ways – we see compassion, community support, and activism, but we also see fear, divisiveness, and emotional exhaustion on the other.  

These events are mentally taxing on those affected and on those who witness it from afar. One factor that influences the psychological toll of these events is the constant exposure to social media. Our phones keep us continuously connected to real-time footage of natural disasters, major world events, political debates, and more. The emotional rollercoaster of anxiety, fear, helplessness, and even numbness, can be extremely overwhelming. For those directly affected by a disaster or major world event, the trauma is real. For the rest of us, witnessing these events can lead to vicarious trauma, especially when the disaster hits close to home. 

In the aftermath of catastrophic weather events, such as Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina, many find themselves “doom scrolling” on social media, watching live feeds of entire communities wiped out and lives forever changed. When a crisis strikes close to home, the emotional impact is even stronger. It’s normal to feel a heightened sense of anxiety and helplessness when we witness these events unfolding in places we know. But this constant exposure can be emotionally draining, leading to what feels like a spiral of worry and the overwhelming sense of being powerless to help. 

Taking Back Control

Personally, I find myself needing to limit how much time I spend on social media during times like these. It’s easy to get sucked down the rabbit hole, where the anxiety and helplessness intensifies. The same can be true for many others. Overconsumption of news and social media can have a significant impact on our mental health. It’s essential to be mindful of how much news we’re consuming, especially when the content is triggering. 

So, what can we do to protect our mental health during these challenging times? Here are a few strategies: 

1. Set Boundaries with Media Consumption: Pay attention to how news and social media affect your emotions. Limit your social media and tv time, especially to content that heightens fear or anxiety. It’s okay to take a step back and give yourself a break from the constant flow of information. 
2. Stay Grounded in the Present: Focus on what you can control in your own life. While it’s important to stay informed, it’s also vital to remain grounded in your daily routine and not allow distant events to consume your mental energy. 
3. Channel Emotions into Positive Action: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by political issues or disasters, consider getting involved in community efforts or humanitarian work. Helping others can foster a sense of control and purpose. 
4. Practice Self-Care: Take time to engage in activities that help you relax and de-stress. Whether it’s mindfulness, exercise, or spending time with loved ones, self-care is crucial for managing emotional overload. 
5. Make space for difficult emotions: ACT therapy teaches us to accept difficult emotions rather than avoid them. When we feel overwhelmed by political or environmental uncertainty, acknowledging these feelings without letting them dictate our actions can help. Focus on aligning your actions with your core values, even in the face of anxiety or fear. This approach allows you to build resilience and navigate stress in a more grounded way, emphasizing personal growth and acceptance.

To learn more about ACT therapy and the six key components of psychological flexibility, click below. We’ve created a free PDF worksheet to help guide through the ACT principles. These are powerful tools to take control of your life and lessen your stress.

In these uncertain and often frightening times, it’s easy to feel helpless. But by being mindful of how much we expose ourselves to the flood of information, and by taking steps to care for our mental health, we can find ways to navigate through the chaos and protect our well-being. 

We’re Here to Help 

Janelle Fleck, LCMHC, is a licensed clinical mental health counselor with extensive experience in helping individuals and couples navigate complex issues such as anxiety, communication challenges, and family stressors. Specializing in trauma-informed care, Janelle’s expertise lies in guiding clients through life’s most stressful and uncertain moments. Whether it’s political unrest, environmental uncertainty, or personal struggles, Janelle combines her knowledge in treating anxiety, trauma, and relationship dynamics to provide compassionate support and practical strategies. Through her holistic approach, she empowers clients to regain a sense of balance and control in their lives, no matter the external pressures. 

Moriah Willis, LCMHC, brings a deep passion for supporting women and mothers dealing with anxiety and stress. With a compassionate approach, she is dedicated to helping clients overcome life’s challenges, especially during times of heightened uncertainty. Moriah specializes in working with women to address the unique pressures they face, from managing anxiety and depression, to navigating emotional overwhelm. Her focus on fostering resilience and emotional well-being makes her a valuable resource for those seeking support in protecting their mental health. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety or depression due to current events or personal stress, Moriah is here to guide you toward finding peace and balance.