In a world marred by ongoing conflicts and unspeakable atrocities from wars to natural disasters to political persecution, maintaining mental and emotional balance can feel like an insurmountable challenge. I see it daily as I am called to sit with my clients. Some have families in the war torn countries, others have served in war and many are finding it challenging to maintain their mental health with the constant influx of distressing news, images of violence, and stories of human suffering. These messages can deeply impact our psyche, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and profoundly saddened. It’s important to recognize that in the face of such trauma, our responses are natural and valid. Here, I explore a trauma-informed perspective on how to navigate these turbulent waters and find a sense of equilibrium amid the chaos.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings:

The first step towards balance is acknowledging your feelings without judgment. It’s natural to feel anger, grief, helplessness, or even guilt when confronted with the immense suffering in the world. By allowing yourself to recognize and accept these emotions, you validate your own experiences, fostering a sense of self-compassion. You can do this through journaling, talking to a friend, talking with your therapist, dance, art and being in nature.

2. Set Boundaries:

This is a crucial step. In an era of 24/7 news cycles and social media, it’s essential to set boundaries. Limit your exposure to distressing news, choosing specific times of the day to catch up on current events. Designate “safe spaces” in your life, whether it’s a room, a specific time of day, or certain activities, where discussions of traumatic events are off-limits. Creating these boundaries can provide a respite from the overwhelming information flow. It can be human nature to want to consume more and more or have the 24/7 news cycle in the background on your TV. Resist the urge and create boundaries, being grateful if you live in a place in the world where you can do this today.

3. Practice Self-Compassion:

Be kind to yourself. Understand that it’s okay to take breaks and prioritize your well-being. Engage in activities that bring you comfort and joy, whether it’s reading, art, exercise, or spending time with loved ones. These moments of self-care are not indulgent; they are essential for recharging your emotional reserves.

4. Connect with Others:

Isolation can exacerbate feelings of despair. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups who understand and respect your emotions. Talking about your feelings with others can provide a sense of validation and shared humanity. Together, you can navigate the complexities of the world, finding solace in collective understanding. Perhaps seek out a volunteer organization that is helping a cause you believe in and get involved and be with others who are supporting that cause in a meaningful way.

5. Practice Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques:

Trauma often pulls us into the past or propels us into an uncertain future. Mindfulness and grounding techniques can anchor you in the present moment. Breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or even a mindful walk in nature can help you reconnect with your body and surroundings, providing a sense of stability amidst chaos. And again, do it with gratitude for having access to those resources amid the suffering in our world right now.

6. Seek Professional Support:

If feelings of distress persist, don’t hesitate to seek help from mental health professionals. Therapy, counseling, or support groups can offer a safe space to process your emotions and develop coping strategies tailored to your unique experiences. If you are feeling severely depressed and have no resources to access a mental health professional, call 988, the National Suicide Hotline, and ask to speak to someone.

7. Channel Your Concern into Action:

Feeling helpless is a common response to the world’s atrocities. Transforming this helplessness into meaningful action can empower you. Support charitable organizations, volunteer your time, or advocate for causes that resonate with you. Taking positive action, no matter how small, can restore a sense of agency and purpose.

In the face of overwhelming global trauma, remember that your well-being matters. Embrace a trauma-informed perspective, honoring your emotions and seeking support when needed. Together, we can navigate these turbulent waters, fostering resilience and finding moments of peace amid the storm. When we are more grounded we are able to be the navigation point to better assist those around us who are suffering.

Jordan Nodelman LCSW provides therapy to those who have suffered from the atrocities of war. He has counseled and provided psychotherapy to veterans and current military members. He has also worked with survivors of natural disasters (including EMDR for the Haiti Earthquake survivors) and man-made disasters (Surfside collapse therapy and 9/11 therapist for World Trade Center Survivor Therapy). Jordan has provided EMDR for PTSD and EMDR for complex-PTSD. If you would like to learn more about the benefits for First Responders of the World Trade Center, reach out.

If you are interested learning more about therapy in Fort Lauderdale, EMDR therapy in Fort Lauderdale, EMDR Certified therapist who takes insurance in Fort Lauderdale or Brainspotting in Fort Lauderdale or EMDR Telehealth in Florida, reach out today by clicking the contact button and seeing if there is availability.

Jordan Nodelman, LCSW, LICSW provides compassionate care in a judgment free zone. We are LGBTQI+ competent. We have also worked with the military, First Responders, police and fire fighters.

Located in Wilton Manors, FL, Located in Fort Lauderdale, the office is safe and tucked away for confidentiality and for peace of mind.

I am an EMDR Certified Therapist in Fort Lauderdale and provide telehealth in Florida, telehealth in Washington DC and telehealth in Virginia.

Therapist for first responders, therapist for police, therapist for PTSD

EMDR therapist who takes United Healthcare in Fort Lauderdale.

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