The impact of toxicity on mental health
The riots, often fuelled by misinformation and polarising rhetoric, create an atmosphere of fear, anger and division. Such an environment can have a profound effect on our mental health, leading to increased stress, anxiety and depression.
The constant barrage of negative news and social media posts can make us feel overwhelmed and helpless. This toxicity seeps into our everyday lives, affecting our relationships, work and overall sense of well-being.
The value of free speech and informed opinions
In the UK, freedom of speech is a cherished right, one that allows us to express our opinions and engage in healthy debate. However, with this freedom comes the responsibility to ensure our opinions are informed and not merely a regurgitation of sensationalist headlines or biased narratives.
The rise of fake news and the influence of right-winged newspapers have made it increasingly challenging to discern fact from fiction. It is essential to approach information critically, seeking out reliable sources and diverse perspectives.
Embracing kindness, compassion, and diversity
Despite the negativity that seems to pervade our society, it is important to remember that the majority of us thrive on kindness, compassion and diversity. These values are the bedrock of a healthy and harmonious community. Acts of kindness, whether small or large, can have a ripple effect, fostering a sense of connection and mutual support.
Embracing diversity enriches our lives, broadening our understanding and appreciation of different cultures and viewpoints.
The power of kindness
Jack Kerouac beautifully articulated, “Practice kindness all day to everybody and you will realise you’re already in heaven now,” in a letter to his first wife and lifelong friend. Despite our sincerest intentions, we repeatedly fall short of this earthly divinity, so readily available yet so easily elusive. In our culture, it has been aptly observed, “we are never as kind as we want to be, but nothing outrages us more than people being unkind to us.”
Strategies to protect our mental health
So, how do we protect our mental health in the face of such toxicity and violence? Here are some strategies that can help:
Limit exposure to negative news
Constant exposure to negative news can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress. Set boundaries on your news consumption and take regular breaks from social media. Choose reliable news sources and avoid sensationalist media that thrive on fear-mongering.
Practice mindfulness and self-care
Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help ground us in the present moment and reduce stress. Prioritise self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk in nature or spending time with loved ones.
Engage in constructive dialogue:
When discussing contentious issues, aim for constructive dialogue rather than heated arguments. Listen actively, respect differing opinions and seek common ground. Remember that it’s okay to agree to disagree.
Build a support network
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who uplift and encourage you. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with trusted individuals can provide comfort and perspective.
Seek professional help
If you find yourself struggling to cope, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapists can provide valuable tools and strategies to manage stress and navigate difficult emotions.
The riots in the UK serve as a stark reminder of the challenges we face in maintaining our mental health amidst societal turmoil. While we are privileged to live in a society that values free speech, it is our responsibility to exercise this right thoughtfully and with compassion.
By embracing kindness, compassion, and diversity and by employing strategies to protect our mental health, we can navigate these turbulent times with resilience and hope.
As a therapist, I urge you to prioritise your well-being and to remember that, even in the darkest of times, there is always a path to healing and growth.
In his fifties, Leo Tolstoy set out to construct a reliable springboard for these moral leaps by compiling “a wise thought for every day of the year, from the greatest philosophers of all times and all people,” whose wisdom “gives one great inner force, calmness, and happiness” — thinkers and spiritual leaders who have shed light on what is most important in living a rewarding and meaningful life.
Let us draw from this wellspring of wisdom and strive to practice kindness every day, for it is in these small acts of compassion that we find the strength to build a better world.
