The world is quickly changing, and for many of us, it doesn’t feel like these changes are for the better. We are in a time of unrest and transition. Many of us are struggling with feeling out of control, and we are facing uncertainty about how to take these strong emotions and use them to do something meaningful. If this sounds familiar, know that you are not alone. Let’s discuss some tools that could help over the coming months.
First, let’s talk about control and anxiety. For a lot of areas of our life, we are able to exert control over the world around us. If we don’t like the way the room we are in is set up, we can move things around, add new components, and make changes until we are satisfied. If we like an article we are reading, we can control what we are doing and keep reading. However, this type of control doesn’t work as well when it comes to what is going on inside our minds. Try as we might, we can’t really fully control what thoughts our minds give us, what emotions pop up, what memories we have. Similarly, there are a lot of changes happening in the world that we can’t directly control. This lack of control of our environment sets the perfect stage for anxiety to thrive. It’s important to recognize that feeling anxiety, fear, sadness, anger, or any other emotion is a normal and acceptable response. It is also equally important to recognize that while there are things out of your control, there are still plenty of behaviors you can engage in that help make the world a better place. Accepting what we do and do not have control over is a great starting point, and allows us to be thoughtful and purposeful in how we move forward.
The next step is to take time for yourself. Before we can show up for our community to the best of our ability, we have to take care of ourselves. Talk with your individual therapist about where you are, and what your fears for the future include. Not currently in therapy? Reach out to one of us at B’Well, many of us are accepting new clients! If you decide that you are in a place where working on yourself is all you can handle at this time, great! Know your limits and boundaries and respect them. However, if you feel like you want to, and can do, more, keep reading for ideas for getting involved and being proactive.
A great question to ask yourself during this time is “What matters to me?” Is there a group of people that you are worried about? Resources that you want to make sure are still accessible? Decide what you are passionate about and let that guide where you go next. Feeling overwhelmed by the number of places where you want to provide assistance? Remember to go one step at a time. Find one area, work there, and then re-evaluate and see if you have time and capacity to do more. Keep reading to see examples of ways that you can get involved.
One option is always giving. When looking for a charity, make sure you do due diligence to learn about how the charity works and spends their money. You can use resources like GuideStar or BBB Wise Giving Alliance for guidance, and check out this New York Times article for more information on how to choose a charity. Some options to consider for giving include mutual aids funds, abortion funds, local communities, food banks, and housing programs.
Another great way to get involved is turning to local politics, where you can make a big difference. Learn more about your neighborhood PTA or school board. Follow local legislation to learn what is going on where you live, and where there are opportunities for you to get involved.
Finally, another great way to exert control is to volunteer. This is where your passions can really drive you.
Are you interested in climate change? Plant native plants, get rid of grass, compost, and eat less meat, especially beef. Reach out to your local parks and environmental centers to see how you can help meet their needs.
Interested in making volunteering a family matter? Check out Doing Good Together for a wide selection of family friendly volunteer opportunities at both a national and local level.
Do you want to learn more about how mental health affects us and how you can help others in a time of crisis? NAMI is always looking for volunteers for their help line.
Do you love animals? Reach out to your local animal shelter and see how you can support them. In Baltimore city, BARCS is always in need of volunteers, and in Baltimore County, the Defenders of Animals Rights could always use your support.
Are you feeling called to support members of the LGBTQIA community? Resources like the Trevor Project and the Human Rights Campaign are always looking for volunteers, and your time can make a real difference in both a national and local level. There are also lots of opportunities to get involved at a local level with programs in your community.
Want to do more hands on work? Reach out to local shelters, senior centers, immigration resource centers, environmental centers, and non-profits, to see how you can become a part of the change that you want to see.
Feeling out of control in this time of transition is an unfortunate normal. Taking these feelings and directing them to doing good in the world and in your community can give you a sense of ownership and fulfillment. Just don’t forget to take care of yourself as well.
Be safe, and Be Well.
Dr. Jo
If you are looking for support during these times of political stress, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Jo here and learn more about B'well's philosophy and services on our website.
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