Written by Kiana
Being active on social media has its pros and cons.
Yes, you can share your experiences, connect with friends and family, and scroll through items that bring you joy. On the other hand, there is a negative side to social media.
Sometimes, social media brings up societal notions of unrealistic body image, exaggerated wealth, and too much “news” content that you may not have the capacity to indulge.
When the COVID pandemic first began, my eyes were glued to my social media apps. I was checking in with everyone and seeing how the rest of the world was coping. Quickly, I came to realize that the top 1% were living as if no changes were enacted and the majority of the world was suffering.
Then, there were protests in the street for Black Lives Matter where police brutalized peaceful assemblers executing their constitutional right. Next, there was a domestic terrorist attack on our congress’ capitol building. Then, my people in Iran are being terrorized by their police for standing up for human rights. And now, there are innocent Palestinian lives lost, families separated and their homeland destroyed and stripped away from them. And all these occurrences were readily available at the tip of my fingers.
Sometimes, having access to distressing news back to back can induce stress. I was feeling stuck, unable to help, and beating myself up for not being enough. I kept checking and checking and feeling low; the cycle kept repeating itself.
I participated in protests as much as I could and advocated for my fellow allies, friends, and family. However, as much as I wished to do more, I came to realize I needed a break.
I had to delete apps from my phone, keep the TV to lighthearted shows, and try to get more fresh air without feeling guilty of my peace.
However, it is important to take these breaks and recharge.
Taking the apps off my phone and trying some mindfulness practices allowed me to continue my fight for the rights of my friends, families, and allies. Our brains are not expected to be on alert at all times, and it is important to continue to rest when your mind and body need it.
Checking in on yourself is not giving up. Checking in allows your mind, body, and soul to rest, recharge, and continue to fight on!
For more information on trauma and healing please visit our resources on the TILA website.