Primary Author: Marisa Valentino | Secondary Author: Sophia Barson LCSW

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by online news? If so, you’re not alone. In the modern age, current events are right at our fingertips, whether we like it or not. Although this allows us to stay informed and up to date with the latest news on a global scale, it does come with some downsides. 

Type the day’s breaking news headline into Google, and you’ll be immersed in a multitude of articles, videos, and more. The sheer volume of available news content makes it easy to feel overwhelmed. Even if you’re passively scrolling through social media, listening to the radio, or watching TV, you’ll likely come across content discussing the latest events. 

The news will often find you, even if you don’t go looking for it. When current events are disturbing and projected on this scale, they can seem inescapable. If you’re experiencing stress in response to upsetting current events, know that your emotions are valid and you’re not alone.

Consider the following if you’d like to learn about coping with this stress: 

    1. Take a Break

Taking time away from social media and TV will give you a chance to process the news you’ve already consumed. Some distressing news and events are out of our control which can make you feel powerless. Taking a break can alleviate these feelings by allowing you to refocus on the things that are within your control. A few good ways to do this are; 

• Baking
• Reading a book
• Listening to music

If you’re struggling to completely disengage from the news, set limits for yourself. You can do this by setting a timer to limit how much time you’re looking at the news.

    2. Use Healthy Coping Strategies

Finding healthy activities you enjoy can help you decompress from news-related stress. Exercise-based activities can be especially beneficial because they release endorphins and improve your mood.  You can try; 

• Going for a walk
• Swimming
• Yoga

    3. Practice Self-Care

Basic acts of self-care and routine can allow you to feel more in control of your circumstances. Maintaining your physical health will make it easier to manage your mental health. Aim to;

• Eat regularly
• Get enough sleep
• Continue your current routines. 

    4. Acknowledge Your Feelings

Give yourself permission to experience your feelings, whatever they may be. Doing so allows you to identify what aspects of the situation are upsetting to you. Then you can find ways to focus on what you can control about the situation.