It seems impossible to live without your smartphone and social media. Both technologies have been the source of much laughter and joy – funny texts between friends, viral Kermit memes, silly #mannequinchallenge videos and crying Jordan faces.
But both technologies also have their fair share of bad. As of late, that bad energy is nonstop coverage of Donald Trump and the unyielding racism that accompanies each story, post, retweet, share and comment.
This is what many of us feared on election night. As the country slowly turned red, showing its centuries-long belief in the hatred associated with Trump’s campaign, an inevitable doom crept over our heads. In that moment, we knew there was no stopping Trump and, most unfortunately, there was no stopping the 24/7 coverage of his every word and action for these next four years.
The writer in me wanted to follow all the headlines: Trump hires racist and Anti-Semite Stephen Bannon to White House team, Alt-Right Movement Questions If Jews Are People.
The more glued to my phone I became, looking at the news cluttering my Twitter, Facebook and Instagram timelines, the more I sank deeper into depression. And, the scary thing is, I didn’t even realize it was happening.
Because of the 24-hour news cycle, we are inundated with news and in these times, that’s unhealthy for our mental health. Here are some tips to manage your mental health under Trump’s presidency.
1. Unplug.
It’s so important to be honest with yourself about whether the news is causing any anxiety – as continual viewing can lead to depression. If you feel like today’s events are overwhelming, unplug. Delete Twitter, Facebook and Instagram off of your smartphone. Don’t worry, it doesn’t delete your account. But it does prevent the temptation of looking at social media while bored. Trust, you’ll feel much better after a day without social media.
2. Tell a friend.
Don’t be ashamed to admit to your friends that you can’t talk about the news, Trump or any of his debauchery at the moment. Tell your friends that you’re taking a mental health day, and would appreciate it if they didn’t send you any links to news or social media posts via text for the day.
3. Do something fun.
Now that you’re not tied down by social media, perhaps go for a walk in a beautiful park, or visit that museum you’ve been wanting to check out. Do the things that bring you happiness while you’re unplugged from the ills of the world for the day.
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