How to protect your mental health during heavy times
These past few weeks have been heavy and downright difficult to stomach. Transparently, I’ve taken a firm stance to protect my peace during this time, while still being aware of what’s happening and supporting our people. Over the years, I’ve become a pretty sensitive empath. Many things can completely set me off, drain my energy or change it completely. I can see or interact with something that may leave me feeling depressed for days. I’m aware of this and protect myself, especially now as I’m still practicing social distancing due to COVID-19. Processing those feelings alone can be difficult.
However, I’m aware that you don’t even have to be an empath to be severely impacted emotionally and mentally by the recent events surrounding the murders of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd. We just continue to ask, why? Why did this have to happen? Why isn’t more being done? It’s enough to make you sick and outraged. Around the nation, we’ve seen just that. People show their outrage and demand more for black people.
Everyone is showing their support in different ways: on the front lines protesting, sharing content and demanding for more people to show up, providing financial support to the families, contributing to bail funds for protesters and even offering free legal support for those getting arrested during protests. No matter what kind of supporter you are, don’t forget to protect you and your mental health during this time. It’s the only way you’ll be able to continue to show up and show support.
Take a News Break
These news cycles are running 24/7. They aren’t always the most responsible or accurate reporting, which can upset you more. Seeing the same traumatic events and racism over and over can really put you in a dark or even numb space.
Protect Your Eyes
You don’t have to watch the videos of these murders. If you do, don’t watch more than once. There are some things that you can't unsee and the visuals can get embedded in your spirit. If you know you can’t handle watching something as graphic as these visuals, protect your eyes.
Use Social Media in Moderation
When I opened social media this week, my timeline was filled with the images of the people murdered, news clips, images of the nation burning and snippets of the dumb things coming out of the mouth of 45. It’s a lot. Take it in doses or be very intentional for how you plan to use your apps for the day.
Pay Attention to Your Body
Our bodies respond to trauma and literally feel grief. You probably noticed your body feeling heavy and there was a lot of tension present. You may have even felt tired and completely unmotivated. Take time to acknowledge these feelings in your body and do things to comfort it. Practice stretching throughout the day, go for a walk, journal to release or even soak in some oils and salts.
Don’t Feel Guilty to Still Find Joy
These are difficult times and everyone processes this trauma differently. I’ve seen people guilting others, even other black people, for not being angry and expressing anger on their platforms. That is your personal decision. You can show support and emotion in various ways, not just one. Furthermore, don’t feel guilty to find a piece of joy in the day to keep yourself going. I’m a believer in being supportive but not being completely consumed.
I’m thinking of you during these times and I’m hoping that even now, you are finding ways and space to take care of you.