Life by Design Therapy
Between the COVID-19 infected president, a chaotic election, and continued racial trauma, the news can make the world seem pretty bleak.
Consuming too much news can lead to something called "headline anxiety," where we feel nervous and out-of-control in response to global events we learn about through the news.
As important as it is to stay informed during this difficult time, it is equally as important to take care of your mental health. Some ways you can limit your news media consumption to protect your energy include:
⭐️ Remember that the news is NOT impartial. News sources cover more negative events than positive ones due to something called "negativity bias," a psychological phenomenon that makes humans more likely to remember negative information than positive information.
⭐️ Limit your exposure to the news. Set a time limit on when and where you will consume the news, and stick to it. That means turning OFF your smartphone notifications, and making sure that you're only reading, watching, or listening to news when you're feeling up to handling it.
⭐️ Don't start your day with a daily dose of news. While many of us are in the habit of reading the news on our phones while laying in bed, this habit can mean we're starting our day on the wrong foot. Start your day with a positive routine, such as listening to music or enjoying a book, before delving into the news.
⭐️ Choose your news sources carefully. You may have noticed that some news sources are more likely to exaggerate the news than others. Look out for sensationalizing language and headlines that might cue you into the fact that this publication values shock value and drama over real journalism.
If you still need help handling the news surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, we have a free collection of resources on our website to help you navigate this difficult time.
Comments
Post a Comment