10 Therapist Tips for Finding Hope in Dark Times

Exercise more

Exercise is extremely good for both physical and mental health. So, try to take advantage of this and exercise every day for at least thirty minutes. You should move your body even if it’s just for a walk.

“Movement is an excellent grounding technique for self-regulation and can help to clear an activated fight-flight-freeze response,” Erinna says. “Blacks have always operated in the space of angst. As a nation, we have all been in a heightened sense of danger for an extended time.”

 

Try to let go of feelings of guilt

Sadly, many people feel guilty for not doing enough and this is one of the biggest mistakes that can lead to stress, depression and anxiety. It’s important to understand that you are doing more than enough for your community and your efforts will be rewarded in the long run. 

For instance, “it’s important to not feel guilty if you think you are ‘not doing enough’ to help fight racial injustice,” says Siobhan D. Flowers, a licensed psychotherapist in private practice in Dallas and adjunct professor at New York University. “Not everyone’s role is to be out on the ‘front lines’ protesting. There are many other ways to make a positive impact, including spreading awareness via social media, donating financially to worthy organizations, educating yourself, and having real conversations with family and friends who may have differing opinions.”