by Sunshima Team
Does it feel like every time you switch on the TV or look at your phone, there is nothing but bad news whether it be about politics, climate change, or economics? This steady stream can be overwhelming and stress-inducing. In fact studies show that exposure to negative news can cause increased anxiety and pessimism along with feelings of hopelessness. However, there are ways to protect yourself and your mental health from the negative effects of bad news. Here are 7 tips for protecting yourself against bad news:
Limit Your Exposure to News
One of the easiest ways to protect yourself from the constant barrage of bad news is to limit your exposure to it and while this can be difficult given how available information is on our devices. Try to avoid watching or reading news updates all day long. Instead, set aside specific times during the day to catch up on the latest news, and then move on to other activities.
Choose Your News Sources Carefully
Be mindful of your news source. Try to find services that have a reputation for being balanced and objective and avoid those that are known for sensationalism and bias. The old adage “Bad news sells newspapers” is still very alive today and in this digital age drama gets the views. Instead, try to find websites/agencies that have positive good stories like the Good News Network.
Be Careful in your Choice of Social Media
Social media can be a great way to stay informed and can be entertaining but it can also be a source of constant negativity. Be selective about the accounts you follow and the news updates you read on social media. Remember, not everything you see on social media is true, so be more critical and fact-check before sharing or reacting.
Take a Break from The News
Isn’t it nice when you go abroad and are too busy relaxing to check the news. So just like it’s good to take a holiday away from work to recharge, it’s also important to take a break from the news, especially when it becomes too much. Engage in other activities that you enjoy, such as reading, exercise, or spending time with loved ones. This can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and keep you in a positive frame of mind.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a technique that can help you stay present and focused in the moment. When you feel overwhelmed by the news, take a moment to practice mindfulness. You can do this is by taking some long, deep calm breaths, and as you breath out through your mouth let go of the negative thoughts and emotions that are weighing you down.
Do Something
One way to combat feelings of helplessness and despair is to get involved. Find ways to volunteer, donate to charity, or support causes that you care about. This can help you feel like you are making a positive difference in the world, even in the face of negative news.
Seek Support
If you are feeling overloaded by the news or struggling to cope with the negative emotions it brings up, don’t hesitate to seek support. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. They can provide you with the support and guidance you need to get through these difficult times.
So, remember, protecting yourself against bad news requires a proactive and intentional approach. By being mindful of your news consumption, choosing your news sources carefully, taking news breaks, and practicing mindfulness, you can lessen the negative effect of bad news on your mental health. Keep in mind, you are not alone, this affects many people. Therefore, get support when you need it and stay connected to your family, friends and community. These are challenging times, so now more than ever you need to protect and nurture your wellbeing.