Surviving a societal shitstorm
By Meghan Olson, MSW, LCSW
It’s no secret that the state of the world has been up in flames recently. Tragedy has emerged left and right – from COVID to the war in Ukraine, to Robb Elementary in Uvalde, to extreme political unrest. Evil has made its presence known and it’s NORMAL for us to not know how to feel or how to respond.
The fact of the matter is – shit has sucked recently. America itself has been divided and the roots of our conflict have caused immense grief and anger on all sides. So where do we even go from here? How do we help ourselves when we feel like we are DROWNING in chaos?
One of my favorite quotes of all time is short and simple: “bloom where you’re planted”. I see it as being a reminder that we can bloom regardless of where we’re planted, which means that we can thrive regardless of our environment (or in this case, regardless of being in the midst of a societal shitstorm).
5 tips to help us bloom:
Remind yourself that you are meant to feel what you feel.
We are emotional beings, and our feelings come up for us for a reason. In order for us to get through this time, we first have to acknowledge what is there and lean into it. And we can’t feel bad about it.
Point out the silver linings.
What I have always noticed in times of darkness is the amount of light that reveals itself following it. For every 1 evil spirit there are 1,000 compassionate, loving, and genuine spirits to outnumber it. Highlight the good and be the good.
Shake things up and prioritize your wellness.
What makes you feel good physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually? What brings you a sense of contentment and peace, even if for 5 minutes? Do the thing(s), and do them OFTEN. Make room.
Advocate for better.
Take your emotions and channel them into making this world better. Donate, march, sign petitions, repost, vote — do whatever feels like you are taking a step toward change.
Tend to your nervous system.
In times like these our systems go into survival mode, which means we are in fight or flight. When our system is heightened it then puts great stress on our bodies, increases anxiety, and wipes us out, so we need to make sure we are reminding our systems that we are SAFE. Practice belly breathing, take a cold shower, read your favorite book, listen to calming music — whatever calms you down. Do it daily.
