Your Nervous System and the News: Staying Informed Without Staying Dysregulated

Regulate & Rewire: An Anxiety & Depression Podcast

Living in the world right now can feel overwhelming, especially when every news alert seems like another crisis demanding your attention– the news can feel like both a moral obligation and a fast track to burnout. If you find yourself caught between wanting to stay informed and feeling completely dysregulated by constant alarming updates, this episode is for you.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why the news is designed to activate your stress response
• The difference between staying informed and perpetuating dysregulation
• The framework: only consume information proportionate to your ability to take action
• Small, meaningful actions that support both nervous system health and social change

3 Takeaways:

1. News media is designed to dysregulate you.
2. Match information consumption to your capacity for action.
3. Caring about the world and protecting your nervous system aren't mutually exclusive.

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Websites to find local ways to serve:

1. JustServe (justserve.org)
   • What it is: A community service platform that connects volunteers with projects from non-profits, faith-based groups, and community organizations. It's very project-oriented, making it easy to find one-time events or short-term needs.
2. VolunteerMatch (volunteermatch.org)
   • What it is: One of the largest and most popular volunteer search engines. You can filter opportunities by location, cause (e.g., Animals, Arts & Culture, Seniors), and skills you want to use. They also list virtual and remote opportunities.
3. Idealist (idealist.org)
   • What it is: While also a major hub for nonprofit jobs and internships, Idealist also has a powerful search function for volunteer opportunities. It's excellent for finding roles that might involve more specific skills or leadership, like serving on a board.
4. Points of Light (pointsoflight.org/volunteer)
   • What it is: A global organization that promotes volunteering. Their website has a search function that aggregates opportunities from various partners, allowing you to find projects in your local area.
5. Meetup (meetup.com)
   • What it is: While not exclusively for volunteering, Meetup is an excellent tool for community involvement. You can find groups dedicated to local clean-ups, community gardening, social advocacy, or simply connecting with neighbors who share your interests.

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Looking for more personalized support?

• Book a FREE discovery call for RESTORE, our 1:1 anxiety & depression coaching program (HSA/FSA eligible & includes comprehensive bloodwork)
• Join me inside Regulated Living, a mental health membership and nervous system healing space (sliding scale pricing available)
• Order my book, Healing Through the Vagus Nerve today!

*Want me to talk about something specific on the podcast? Let me know HERE.

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