A Day in My Shoes

With so much going on in the world right now it'd be easy to jump on here and start using this blog as a platform to voice my opinion. While I may say something from time to time that's "my opinion," I'm never going to make this strictly about what I think nor will I make it about what you want to hear. 

I posted something on Facebook yesterday that captures how I truly feel here...

You see, I believe that I've been called by God to this ministry. I feel that He has a calling on my life to work with women who've been abused (NOT saying that men can't be abused or find help from my blog). With that being said, let's take a look at something we can all do to make ourselves feel better right now...

The news has become especially problematic recently because you can't put it down like you could in the past. Instead, you're now being bombarded with it 24/7 - even when you're not actively seeking it thanks to your phone, email, and social media feeds.

Unfortunately, the news is depressing. This continuous onslaught of depressing news can trigger intense feelings of helplessness and a nagging sense of dread, especially with women.

Some of the things you can do here include:

• Limiting your exposure: You can't completely ignore the news because you need to be safe. Plus, when you talk to others you don't want to be embarrassed because you don't know what's happening. Instead, limit the amount of time you watch the news each day to an hour - 30 minutes of local news and 30 minutes of national news.
• Focusing on what you can control: When an issue is truly bothering you, consider what you can do on in "your own backyard." Volunteering is also great for people with PTSD because it gets your mind off of yourself for a bit. It also can help you feel empowered, which will lessen your own anxiety.
• Looking for news that has a positive spin to it: Do your best to avoid news agencies that have a "doomsday" outlook or play the "blame game." You don't want the news to be worse so you should also try to seek positive news stories. Find these by simply seeking out "positive news stories" on Google then signing up for the site's emails.
• Avoiding breaking news: The news media needs time to get their facts straight. By letting yourself consume breaking news you're adding to your stress. Instead, wait a while before tuning in so you get all the facts straight. 
• Trying not to get your news from social media: Not everyone on social media has the best intentions. Some simply love riling people up by posting articles from unreliable sources. If you can't simply scroll by and ignore it, get off of social media. It only adds drama to your life anyways.
• Distracting yourself: After you've watched your daily allotment of news, spend 20 - 30 minutes doing something for yourself (e.g. read a book, listen to some music, do some crafts). 
• Not letting yourself watch the news before bed: A quick update before bed will only fuel your anxiety and add to your sleep issues. While you're at it, stay off of social media at this time too. Instead, engage in some self care.

Here's praying that we'll all get through this time and become better people because of it. I honestly feel God is changing things in His way. He's calling His children to rise up and be the peaceful change this world so desperately needs. Let Him know He can count on you today!

P.S. Remember, sharing is caring.

Who do you know that could be 

blessed by this ministry too?