With all of the recent deaths of black men and women across the country, it may leave some individuals feeling broken. The constant plastering of black bodies and black death can be psychologically and mentally draining and truly damaging to one’s mental health. Here are a few tips to keep sane amidst the senseless murder of black people.
1. Log off of social media.
Social media is bombarded with triggers, videos and pictures. Scrolling through any timeline or feed, you’ll continuously see black bodies being slaughtered like the animals they think we are. While staying updated is important, it can also be psychologically damaging and traumatizing. Log off for a moment. Decompress. Get your mind right.
2. Have conversations in real life with real people.
Having a dialogue in person brings with it a certain level of comfort. While we definitely need these conversations on social media, it’s crucial you talk and heal with other people in person. It’s hard to truly heal solely online; you need physical contact and in-person conversations.
3. Do something you enjoy.
Take some time and get invested in one of your hobbies. I’ve found myself reading and writing a lot this week, trying to get into a good mental space. If only for a few hours, I make sure to invest my time into something I enjoy to reduce all of the negative emotions pulsating through me.
4. Be wary of all of the videos being posted.
The videos of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling have been circulating all week, and if you are not ready to see them, do not watch them. Also, be mindful when you’re retweeting and posting them on various social media platforms. While you may be able to handle the videos, someone else may find them traumatizing.
5. Listen to uplifting music.
Chance the Rapper’s “Coloring Book” mixtape has been on constant repeat for me throughout this past week. Find time to indulge yourself in a playlist that makes you feel happy and lifts your spirits.
This week has been especially tough, but you cannot forget to live. You cannot forget to smile, or to laugh or to live. We are fighting for our very survival but we cannot lose ourselves in the process. I remember feeling utterly broken after watching the Philando Castile video. I was filled with such a hopeless rage that I didn’t know what to do with myself. I did these five things, and they’ve helped me begin to heal. Unfortunately, another event happens, another killing, another senseless murder -- most recently a hanging -- and the healing process must start over again. But it’s a start.
