Lighten Your Load: How Handle Challenging News

For numerous individuals in Black and Brown communities, the news embodies more than mere background noise; it mirrors tangible realities. Headlines concerning racial violence, economic hardship, and political upheaval are not abstract concepts. They often pertain to people within our neighborhoods or share similar histories. This proximity amplifies the weight of the relentless news cycle, making it feel more personal and more exhausting.Studies indicate that even fleeting exposure to distressing news can lead to significant psychological effects. A Johns Hopkins study revealed that just 14 minutes of negative news can elevate anxiety and depressive symptoms, triggering physical stress reactions. Prolonged exposure exacerbates these effects, which disproportionately affect marginalized communities, as these narratives speak to survival, safety, and rights.Kansas City therapist Liz Davis observes that her clients frequently engage in doomscrolling, leading to anxiety and self-isolation. Addressing these issues, she emphasizes the necessity for a mindful approach towards news consumption, suggesting that individuals focus on what they can control to foster a healthier relationship with the media.