Move through stages of sadness over current events

Currently, do you experience a lot of emotions about the current global events, especially what is happening in your country? You are not alone. In this unprecedented time in history, individuals who are usually on even keels struggle to keep their heads emotionally on the water. People with mental health challenges such as: anxiety and depression You may be struggling even more now.

Experience the stages of travel sorrow It is a completely natural response to the current global event and is called Sociopolitical sadness. However, the current turmoil in the US and the world has unfortunately, we are virtually struck by new crisis in the news on a daily basis. Therefore, moving through stages of sadness through current events may not be a linear process. This means that individuals can return to previous stages at different times. The five stages of sadness are undoubtedly not a harsh emotional process.

For some people, Collective sadness Experiences experienced due to sociopolitical events may be supported by gathering together digitally to express and process emotions. This may be useful to some extent, but the challenge, such as “Doom-Scrolling,” is to get stuck in the mud.

In fact, reading daily about political events in the news can be causing people to important people. stress. One tip to help with emotional processing and mental health protection is to turn off the news for a day or two, or strictly limit news access to not being the focus of the day.

The stage of sadness

According to Elizabeth Kubler Ross model,The five stages of sadness are as follows: rejection2) anger3) negotiation, 4) depression, and 5) acceptance. Due to the extraordinary nature of the current period, it may be necessary to change the stage to suit what many people are currently experiencing for the current global event. there is.

1. Denial – rather, distrust

Perhaps many people are currently in a stage of shock and distrust because of what is happening in their country. There may be some idea that “this cannot happen here.” This is the first stage of sadness and allows the pop-up to continue as the event unfolds.

For many people, trying to wrap their minds around what is happening in their country may not even begin to address how deeply the events are affecting people.

2. anger

Other individuals moved to the second stage, anger. Many may feel helpless against current events that could further promote their anger. One of the keys to this stage of sadness is, like all stages, Feelingsand try to handle it and channel it in a healthy way (if possible). For some, taking healthy, positive behaviors that fit their beliefs (such as protest) may help them restore their sense of power and control.

3. negotiation

When applied to global events, negotiations may not be at a clear stage. In the midst of sadness over the loss of a loved one, negotiations often involve negotiation through prayer. However, the sadness over the current problem may be a little different. The negotiation stages applied to recent events can take the form of “You can accept ____, but not ___” (fill in the blank for you).

4. depression

Depression in this situation may occur in many ways. That could be a deep sadness. I know that my country is never the same. What is closely attached to depression may be feelings of helplessness and loss of control. A sense of loss of personal strength and control It causes emotions from Childhoodespecially if the person grew up feeling strongly controlled and helpless.

5. Acknowledgments and acceptance

In the five stages of sadness in Kubler-Ross, the final stage is usually accepted. In certain circumstances, such as extreme political situations, acceptance may not always be the right response. Perhaps we may try, not for acceptance, but instead of accepting that it is happening instead. rejection. The actions you decide to take at that point will be a very personal and personal choice. For example, a particular individual may need to look for a bit of soul to determine whether the current state of the country is endurable (and safe) for themselves and their families. Others may I’m moving overseasleaving the current country. Still others may be in a “hold pattern” or waiting situation and expect the best.

The stages of sadness may not be linear processes – especially regarding current events

It is important to remember that the stages of sadness are never linear, especially when it comes to current events. So, one day you may feel angry at a particular event, and the next day you may feel sad. This pattern can be repeated and it’s fine. It’s important to have yourself the space to feel the need to feel what is happening around you. Some individuals may experience it Complex sadness (Or long-term sadness you can’t pull out). It is essential for those experiencing long-term grief to find qualified psychotherapists to help them in this process.

Along the path through these stages there is a process of actually grieving, which is especially important. shout As long as necessary. Get support from a trusted loved one and a qualified therapist. Do not push too hard. If you need to take mental health day from work, do it! Take care of me you And be there to support your loved ones with their emotional processing. Prioritize your happiness and your mental health in these times of trials.

Visit to find a therapist near you Psychology Today’s Therapy Directory.