Coping with the Emotional Toll of Threats to Women’s Rights
As women, we’ve come a long way. We’ve earned the right to vote, to hold our wages, and to own property. We continue to fight tirelessly for equal rights and equal pay.
It feels as though we still have a steep uphill battle against us. It’s hard not to notice the chaos that’s going on in the world anytime we turn on the television or open up social media.
The onset of changes and threats to women’s rights was felt with the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Since then, it’s hard not to feel like we’re under constant targeting and attack. The rights that women before us have fought so hard for can be taken away in the blink of an eye. Or so it feels.
The stress of it all can easily take its toll and negatively impact our quality of life. In these tumultuous times, knowing how to cope may just be a lifesaver for your well-being.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
Emotions are going to run strong and deep. The worst thing you can do for yourself is pretend like you’re not phased or not upset. Acknowledge and accept whatever emotions you’re feeling.
Allow yourself the opportunity to be frustrated, angry, fearful, or sad without passing judgment. Everything you’re feeling is valid in the face of potential threats to your rights.
Limit Your Media Consumption
Staying oblivious to the happenings in the world is not a practical solution, especially since the unknown can be more harmful. While keeping up with news and information is valuable, you want to make sure you’re setting boundaries around your consumption.
Limit the number of times each day that you’re exposing yourself to distressing news in any format. Plan designated times each day where you will check the news or sift through socials.
Be intentional about the content that you’re reading or listening to. There’s a lot of fluff and false information swirling around. You don’t want to fall victim to misinformation. Make sure you also spend time taking in positive content to balance out the scale.
Channel Your Frustration into Action
There are a lot of factors that are out of our control right now. It can leave you feeling helpless, which can fuel the emotional toll.
If you’re harboring emotions, you can try channeling them into something purposeful may make you feel better. Even small steps are steps towards change.
Start contacting your representatives on matters related to women’s rights. Volunteer for outings or events that fall within your comfort range. Help register voters and get out the vote. Vet the information you’re consuming and share reliable sources. These are all ways you can get involved in a safe, yet effective manner.
Continue to Practice Self-Care
Focusing on self-care during periods of stress and turmoil is one thing that can easily fall by the wayside. Unfortunately, now more than ever, self-care is crucial.
Prioritize a regular sleep schedule. Engage in consistent physical activity. Practice mindfulness or meditation. Spend time outside absorbing fresh air and nature. Schedule in time to participate in activities that bring you joy, with people who fill your cup.
Seek Professional Help
With the current state of affairs, it doesn’t appear that the gas pedal is going to be let up any time soon. If you’re experiencing an emotional toll now, it may last for some time. Knowing how to cope is essential.
Speaking with a therapist can help provide insight into what’s triggering your emotions as well as methods to manage them. We can explore healthy strategies to cope and additional ways to focus your energy.
