A Message of Care and Support

In moments of widespread uncertainty and distress, it’s important to remember that your mental health matters and deserves care and protection.

If current events in the U.S. or around the world feel overwhelming, if you’re experiencing heightened fear, anxiety, unease, anger, or emotional exhaustion, please know that these reactions are very normal. Our nervous systems are designed to respond to perceived threats, and constant exposure to disturbing or traumatic information can have a real impact on our well-being. You are not alone in feeling this way.

One meaningful step you can take is to be mindful of how much media you consume. Today’s 24/7 news cycle and social media platforms make information constantly and easily accessible. While staying informed is important, too much exposure, especially doomscrolling, can intensify stress and anxiety. Consider setting gentle boundaries around when and how you engage with the news and make space for activities that help regulate and restore your nervous system.

We’ve put together a list of resources, information, and activities to support your mental health.

Caring for mental health is a necessity, especially during challenging times. Seeking support, staying connected to others, and practicing acts of self-care can make a meaningful difference for individuals and communities alike.

If you are struggling, we encourage you to reach out to our Trauma Recovery Network® for professional support and to utilize our Resource List.  Please check back frequently, as we will continue to add more resources in the coming weeks.

Resource List

• Trauma Recovery Network®: learn about services at https://www.emdrhap.org/disaster-relief/, find a TRN near you at https://www.emdrhap.org/trn/find-trn-associations/
• Children’s Network: What To Say to Kids About ICE (English) Qué Decirles a los Niños Sobre ICE (Español)
• Crisis Text Line: free, available 24/7, confidential, https://www.crisistextline.org/
• EMDR for Kids: EMDR Videos for Kids. Whether you’re a therapist, a parent, or a kid with big feelings, these videos are here to guide, calm, and support. 
• International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF): Critical Incident Stress Information Sheet includes common signs and signals of a stress reaction and suggestions on ways to respond and cope.
• Latinx Therapy: Guide for Supporting Mixed-Status and Undocumented Teens
• Mental Health America (MHA): Negative news coverage and mental health
• NAMI Minnesota: Self-Care and Mindfulness During Times of Fear and Uncertainty in Minnesota
• National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN): Assisting Parents and Caregivers in Coping with Collective Traumas
• National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN): Community Violence Resources
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIH): Helping Children and Adolescents Cope With Traumatic Events (English and Spanish versions)
• NMVVRC: Managing Distress Grounding Tips for Crime Victims, Survivors and Family Members of Mass Violence Incidents (MVIs)
• SAMHSA: Tips for Survivors of a Disaster or Traumatic Event: What To Expect in Your Personal, Family, Work, and Financial Life
• SAMHSA: Coping with Grief After Community Violence.
• The Trevor Project: the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people. They provide information & support to LGBTQ+ young people 24/7, all year round. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
• Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

For Helpers

• • American Psychiatric Association: Preventing Burnout: A Guide to Protecting Your Wellbeing
  • CDC: Providing Support for Worker Mental Health
  • SAMHSA: Tips for Healthcare Professionals: Coping with Stress and Compassion Fatigue