Finding Peace Amongst the Chaos
As we soak up the long summer days—sun-kissed skin, beach outings, and backyard barbecues—we’re also living through a time of constant, far-reaching change. From natural disasters to global conflicts and political unrest, the world around us can feel unpredictable and, at times, overwhelming.
There was a time when news came in small, digestible doses: a conversation around the water cooler, the evening newscast, the weekend paper, or casual chatter at the local pub. Today, we’re plugged in 24/7. The news never stops—streaming, scrolling, and spreading across our social media feeds. We’re inundated with headlines, hot takes, and high-stakes commentary.
Much of what we consume is laced with harsh rhetoric—personal attacks, unfiltered opinions, and inflammatory language. And it’s taking a toll. The relentless coverage can trigger anxiety, fear, and frustration. It affects not only our emotional health, but our overall well-being—leading to sleep disruption, difficulty focusing, increased substance use, and strain in our relationships.
While staying informed and civically engaged can be empowering, constant exposure to distressing content can also wear us down.
"Politics is a chronic stressor that people see as consistently taking a toll on their emotional and even physical health across the long term."
— Kevin Smith, Department of Political Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Chronic stress reduces our capacity to bounce back from life’s challenges. It chips away at resilience, leaving us emotionally drained and less able to cope with everyday demands.
The good news? There are practical steps we can take to protect our mental health while staying informed:
1. Limit and filter media exposure
Take charge of what you consume. Choose credible news sources. Set limits on how often—and when—you check the news. Try powering down at least 30 minutes before bed to give your mind a chance to wind down.
2. Lean into self-care
We can’t control everything, but we can control how we care for ourselves. Spend time outdoors, nourish your body with healthy foods, maintain regular sleep routines, and enjoy the warmth and beauty of summer.
3. Use your strengths
Reflect on the coping strategies that have helped you in the past. Reframe challenges, break information into manageable parts, and keep a sense of humor. Tap into what works—and be open to learning new tools.
4. Be mindful of doomscrolling
Notice when you fall into a cycle of endlessly scrolling through negative news. This pattern can worsen your mood and fuel anxiety or hopelessness. Give yourself permission to step back.
5. Stay grounded in the present
The nervous system reacts to imagined threats the same way it does to real ones. Focus on the moment. Mindfulness, breathing exercises, yoga, and grounding techniques can help calm your body and bring clarity.
6. Stay socially connected
Isolation amplifies stress. Stay connected with friends and family. Plan positive activities, engage in your community, or join a local group. Even chatting with someone at the dog park can lift your mood and provide a sense of belonging.
Establishing healthy boundaries around media and technology use isn’t easy—but it’s necessary. It requires intention and practice. By creating space for peace and connection, we give ourselves the chance to recharge, build resilience, and stay balanced in a world that rarely slows down.
So as the sun shines and summer continues, invest your energy where it matters most: being present, caring for your well-being, and spending time with the people who make life meaningful.
- Written by Marion Hall, BSW, RSW
