Ways to Practice Self Care in Chaotic Times
- Caroline Mayberry
- Apr 23
- 5 min read
Real Life Tips for Those Trying Not to Go Insane
It's probably not news to you that we are living in extremely stressful times. Between political polarization, escalating natural disasters, and economic uncertainty, it seems like the barrage of bad news is constant. Of course, the problems of the world aren't the only things keeping us up at night - we all have our share of personal stressors that will compound our stress if not managed.
The need to intentionally take care of yourself is more important. than ever under these circumstances. And, while I do enjoy bubble baths and face masks, those aren't the self-care practices that I'm suggesting here. As a millennial who has lived through more than a couple of economic recessions, giant world events, and personal traumas, I have some specific actions for you to take to improve your overall well-being. Let's get into it.
Find Your Trusted Sources
Why Trusted Information Matters
With laws and crises changing every day it is important to stay informed. No matter where you fall on the political spectrum, it is important to find trustworthy news sources. Trustworthy news outlets cite their sources, are open to having their opinions swayed, and show content from both sides.
I have found several YouTube channels that use a form of reporting that I connect with. I’m also a big proponent of taking in current events through clips from late-night shows. Throw in a bit of humor; laugh so you don’t cry.
Find what works for you, and remain open to new reputable sources.
Set Limits for Yourself
Tips for Managing Information Overload
No matter how important it is to stay informed, there is certainly a healthy limit to how much news of any kind (good or bad) your brain can absorb. I recommend setting a time limit for yourself, some how.
It works for me to only watch news clips in the morning (after I journal, and before I start work), and at lunch. But by the evening, I switch to other forms of content.
I also set limits on my personal social media (doom)scrolling. I’m not perfect, but with the help of some digital health apps and intentional notifications, I’ve been trying to keep it to 25 minutes a day.
Boundaries for Mental Health
When you’re trying to draw boundaries in one area of life, like news consumption, it can be very helpful to practice drawing boundaries in other areas of your life.
If the term “boundaries” is a new term to you, think of boundaries as the buffer between you and the outside world that allows you to continue feeling your best. When used correctly, a boundary can be one of the best ways to practice self care.
This can mean saying “no” to commitments that drain your energy. It can mean having difficult conversations with people you’re in a relationship with to tell them what you need. It could mean signing off for work when the day is over.
Assess what areas of your life could benefit from more boundaries.
Find a Way to Contribute
The Power of Helping Others
One of the best ways to overcome a feeling of helplessness is to find ways to help. In times like these, there are plenty of ways that you can help, both big and small.
Now, more than ever, communities are important. Authoritarianism aims to divide us, to pit us against each other. You can fight this by getting to know your neighbors, by checking in to see how they’re doing, if they need anything.
In this Age of Information, misinformation abounds. One way that you can contribute is by amplifying the voices that you trust, the messages that you want to see. This can be as easy as Liking, Commenting, and Sharing posts.
On a bigger scale, protests are happening - both in the streets and in the shops. Whether you’re more comfortable with action or inaction, you can make your opinion heard.
You may find that there are more and more opportunities developing offline. This means that you may need to plug into your real life community to find what’s going on.
Take Time Away
The Importance of Disconnecting
The name of the game of this administration is information overload. Don’t forget the parts of life that are happening outside the 24-hour news cycle.
No matter how you plan to get involved, give yourself dedicated time to refill your cup. Remember that it’s important to put your own oxygen mask on before you can safely help others!
Ways to Practice Self Care
What fills your cup? For me, the ways that I practice self-care when I need to recharge include putting screens away, getting outside, and moving my body. I know that during this chapter, I’m making it a point to visit as many national parks as often as I can.
I can highly recommend reading a real-life book instead of watching TV. Revisit your hobbies - it doesn’t matter if you’re good at them, or if you’ve practiced them recently.
If you need any more ideas, I found this blog post from Mehret Biruk to be inspiring and entertaining.
Refuse to Live Joylessly
Cultivating Joy Amid Chaos
In case it’s not abundantly clear by the screaming hoardes of red-hatted masses, this administration does not endorse joy. Fear? Anger? Hatred? Sure, but not joy.
That means that one of the most authentic and impactful forms of protest is creating joy. Create joy for yourself, invite others into your joy. Find reasons to smile, and share your smile with those around you.
Even the smallest acts of kindness can spread light in the darkness.
Ways Practical Ways to Invite Joy into Your Life
When you’re feeling particularly low, it can be helpful to have a go-to joy list to reach for. A few tried and trusted ways to get your happy back, to scare the blues away.
A few things that work for me include jotting down a quick gratitude list, celebrating small wins with small treats (when was the last time you bought yourself your favorite candy bar?), and, of course, spending time with people who make me happy.
Taking Care of Yourself as an Act of Resistance
In these crazy times, taking care of yourself is an act of resistance. As we continue this trek back in time, it will take strength and resilience for us to protect our rights, our democracy and our community.
I hope that these strategies help you manage your stress. And if you need support during this time, please connect with me to learn about beginning a coaching partnership!
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