Managing Your Mental Health During Stressful News Cycles

At times we encounter what feels like a barrage of alarming headlines and graphic images related to abuse, corruption, extreme weather events, international crisis, and war. It is no small wonder that this can leave us feeling helpless, overwhelmed and emotionally drained.

Individuals, families, and communities may experience heightened stress in response to one stressful news event, the combination can lead to a variety of difficulties. Feelings of fear, desperation, anger, sadness, anxiety, despair, and frustration may occur. As well as a preoccupation with the news that can make concentration and daily tasks difficult.

If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Below are some strategies to support mental wellbeing during difficult news cycles.

If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Below are some strategies to support mental wellbeing during difficult news cycles. 

1. Choose your news
Identify a couple of reliable and trustworthy news sources to follow. You don’t have to be across all coverage to be well informed.  

2. Avoid the Doom Scroll
Allocate a predetermined amount of time before you begin to scroll. Consider the time of day (right before bed may not be the best time for a peaceful sleep). Also consider time limits, avoid rewatching the same news reports over again and turn off notifications for news apps. Balance your news with positive and hopeful news, there are inspiring people, communities and organisations doing incredible work to resolve important issues across the globe. 

3. Focus on what you can control
Much of the news is outside our control. But our thoughts and actions are within our control, try to make choices that have a positive impact on your wellbeing and others. This may look like reaching out to others, volunteering or donating money. 

4. Self care 
This looks like maintaining regular routines, staying active, eating regular nutritious meals, staying hydrated, adequate sleep, connecting with others, and engaging in activities that promote self-worth.

5. Seek professional help
If you notice changes in behaviour and difficulties around sleep, work, relationships, concentration and coping you may benefit from booking an appointment and seeking support, support is available.  

Written By: Kara Binstadt - Registered Psychologist