Taking Care of Yourself During Times of Trouble

By ALICE O’BRIEN

Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket

We are living in a lot of contradiction at the moment. Our everyday life is full of the normal routine, mixed with a sprinkle for excitement of up-coming festive cheer and a few funny moments with the people we love. On the other hand, we turn on the news or read the paper and we are flooded with horrifying images from Gaza and Palestine. Images of suffering, of beautiful innocent lost children, of homes destroyed and displaced people. It is very normal for us to be affected by all of this- to experience headline anxiety and then guilt if we choose to turn it off.

There are some things you can do to lessen the sense of doom that is part of this on-going crisis:

• It might seem obvious but try to limit the amount of time spent on social media. With various technologies, it is very easy for very emotive images to be sent across the world in a matter of seconds. Where we had to imagine these horrific things years ago; nothing is left to the imagination now. So, take care. Watch news from reputable sources and limit your daily intake.

• It is not selfish to prioritise your own wellbeing. If you find it triggering to talk about these atrocities then cut the conversations, change the subject. You do not have to feel guilty for looking after your own self-care.

• Movement is a great tool against anxiety. If you are feeling stressed or worried get out for a walk, even a ten minute walk can change your emotional state. Getting out in nature is even better- so head to the Island Wood.

• Try mindful breathing. Take a long slow breath. Stop and ground yourself. We are safe here in our side of the world, even though it is hard to think of such huge suffering elsewhere.

So, remember, as events unfold in the world, we have a duty to look after ourselves and look after what happens within our own homes- we are even allowed to enjoy life.