At a time where it seems as though there is only negativity and tragedy in the world, many of us can become consumed in the outlets that unleash these feelings among our mental and emotional states. While for many, keeping updated with news stories and the status of trials and legislations can possibly serve as a coping mechanism to upkeep the feeling that a solution is being made for a problem; however, when constantly looking on our screens at and receiving information with no break in between we can start to form unhealthy mental health practices that may become harmful in the long run.

Part of many coping mechanisms and healing practices involve unplugging in some aspect, however, unplugging from the media and news cycle is a different type of healing as with recent events revolving around mass shootings, racially motivated violence, and the ongoing effects of the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic many individuals may feel a sense of fear, hopelessness, and isolation to a dangerous extent where they are constantly being fed an influx of information. In these times where support and constant nurturing of communication is needed, it can prove to be difficult to disconnect, however when removing yourself from the news and media cycle you are allowing yourself to process your thoughts and emotions fully and keep a balanced mind.

Taking a break from the news and media can also mean giving your body much needed rest and reflection that is needed for healing and regeneration of energy. What this can mean for you mental state is allowing your body to fully take the necessary time to rest and give yourself a clear mind that allows you to focus on coping with any emotional effects from stories that are heard in the news that may trigger any trauma. Taking time for yourself in practicing self-care via resting, keeping a healthy diet, meditating, practicing breathing and art therapy coping devices is instrumental in the healing journey of an individual. However, when constantly surrounded by waves of negativity, it can halt or even further damage any progress made in terms of our healing process because the body and mind is not given time for rest and regeneration. This does not mean to simply avoid the realities of our world, but to monitor how we take in information and to practice awareness of the effects it can have on our mental state and functioning.

In a time where the unexpected seems to be an everyday occurrence, it is important to maintain our mental health in any way possible. While not all news cycles and media are negative, a large majority can be, which can often trigger cynicism, hopelessness, and even worsen anxiety and depression based tendencies. By reducing even a small fraction of consumption a day and looking towards surrounding ourselves with positivity and progression through the therapeutic devices recommended to us, we are truly giving ourselves a much needed mental and emotional break from the daily stresses that can come across our way and further lead us on a path of healing and happiness.