Therapists' Advice for Coping with Existential Dread and Grief

Core Concepts

Therapists recommend acknowledging emotions and seeking support to cope with existential dread and grief effectively.

Abstract

In a time filled with distressing news and overwhelming emotions, therapists advise finding ways to decompress, taking breaks from social media, and opening up to others. Acknowledging feelings, seeking support, and engaging in meaningful conversations are crucial steps in coping with existential dread and grief.

Stats

Social media can overwhelm the nervous system by keeping it in a constant state of hyperarousal.
Spending quality time with others can alleviate loneliness and provide an outlet for fears and frustrations.
Acknowledging feelings is an important part of the grieving process.

Quotes

"A person can condemn violence...and simultaneously need some time off social media to cope." - Alegra Kastens, LMFT
"We are interconnected in our humanity, having your feelings acknowledged, witnessed, and held is an important part of the grieving process." - Ivy Kwong, LMFT

Key Insights Distilled From

7 Therapists Share Their Best Advice for Coping With Existential Dread and Grief

by Cond... at www.self.com 12-07-2023

https://www.self.com/story/existential-dread-grief-therapist-coping-skills

Deeper Inquiries

How can individuals strike a balance between staying informed about world events without being overwhelmed?

In order to strike a balance between staying informed about world events and avoiding feeling overwhelmed, individuals can implement certain strategies. Setting limits on the amount of time spent on social media or news websites is crucial. This could involve scheduling specific times during the day to check for updates rather than constantly refreshing feeds. Additionally, diversifying news sources can help in gaining a more comprehensive understanding of current events while reducing the risk of information overload. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and decompression, such as meditation, exercise, or hobbies, can also provide a much-needed break from distressing news.

What are potential drawbacks of constantly engaging with distressing news on social media?

Constantly engaging with distressing news on social media can have several negative consequences on mental health and well-being. It may lead to increased feelings of anxiety, stress, and hopelessness as individuals are bombarded with tragic stories and images continuously throughout the day. This constant exposure to negativity can contribute to emotional exhaustion and burnout, making it challenging for individuals to focus on their daily tasks or maintain healthy relationships. Moreover, consuming excessive amounts of distressing content online may desensitize individuals to human suffering over time, potentially impacting their empathy towards others.

How does the concept of interconnectedness influence coping mechanisms during times of crisis?

The concept of interconnectedness plays a significant role in shaping coping mechanisms during times of crisis by emphasizing the importance of community support and mutual understanding. Recognizing that we are all connected through our shared humanity allows individuals to seek comfort and solace in each other's presence during difficult moments. By reaching out to friends or loved ones for emotional support and validation, people can feel less isolated in their struggles and find strength in collective resilience. Acknowledging this interconnection also encourages empathy towards others who may be experiencing similar challenges or hardships, fostering a sense of solidarity and compassion within communities facing adversity together.