We’ll Get Through This

Lately, I’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the political and social unrest around us. The surge in hate language and violence among opposing opinions is alarming, and the news often fuels contempt for one another, adding to my mental burden. If you’re feeling the same way, know that you’re not alone. This stress can take a toll on both our minds and bodies. But even in these trying times, there are simple, down-to-earth ways to find peace and hope. Here are a few actions I take to stay grounded:

Take a Time Out: When things get overwhelming, I stop what I’m doing to shift my attention to something I know will uplift me. I pick a piece of wisdom from my grandma’s box or pull out old photos that put a smile on my face. Recently, a photo of my dad in his Army uniform reminded me that his generation had their World War and much division that preceded it, but they got through it. 

Back off of the News: It’s easy to get caught up in the constant stream of news, but when I realized that I wasn’t learning anything and that it was primarily theater playing to different audiences to stir them up, I decided to step away. Instead, I turn to my British detective novels, inspiring movies, funny pet videos, or I have a nice chat with a loved one. Now, my worry and depression meter has dropped below the dangerous red zone.

Lean on Those You Trust: Sharing your worries with someone you trust can lift the burden and even trigger laughter. My friends and family hear from me a lot these days. They may or may not fully agree with me, but they are of the sort that freely give their understanding, support, and love. I trust that they love me no matter what, and have proven that during these uncertain times. 

Get a Move-on: Staying stuck in the house feels to me like I’ve stepped in concrete. So to avoid getting stuck there and sinking to the bottom, I get out into the fresh air. I’ve mentioned in other articles, I get into my yard to bust my stress. Weed whacking and hedge trimming relieve any pent-up angst. If that’s not your bag, walking, dancing, or anything physical can lift your spirits—including shopping, and you also might find your sleep improving.

Find the Love: It’s been proven that sharing some love with others brings a sense of purpose and joy. Try surprising your neighbor with a homemade chocolate cake, compliment a stranger on their cool hat, or help someone struggling to get groceries into their trunk. These acts of kindness can make a big difference in how you feel about our world and your role in it. Give love, get love—it’s as simple as that!

Dust Off Your Hobby: Upset, anger, and depression can lead to some of our favorite things being set aside. Whatever you have loved to do in the past, it’s not dead, it’s only hibernating. I used to drive to the beach, go to a museum, or explore little communities that were unknown to me. Those activities were stored away somewhere, but now I’m shaking them awake, and finding those activities are heartening and stoke my hope.  

Count Your Blessings: Reflecting on the good things in our lives every day fuels happiness. Every afternoon I sit with a cup of tea or a glass of iced coffee and give gratitude for three things in my life. I have friends who now practice this, and they agree that focusing on the positive brings a sense of peace and contentment that they were missing.

I’ve learned that sitting around brooding and bemoaning what’s happening in our country hasn’t helped the situation or me. Taking positive actions to keep myself grounded, hopeful, and grateful has been the best medicine for me. I hope that by using these actions you, too, can find a bit of calm and hope during the storm. Stay kind and be good to yourself and others—we’ll get through this.