I say this for all people to know that it’s okay.
There’s a lot going on, all over the world, and it’s scary. I know it is. You know it is. Everyone knows it is.
You are allowed to be concerned and confused and worried and mindful and respectful of everything going on. You’re allowed to care about more than one thing.
But please remember that you are important too.
As someone with Anxiety and ADHD who experiences hyper-empathy, I understand how much this can weigh on your shoulders. You can feel guilty for not caring enough, you can feel frozen and like you can’t do anything. You can end up beating yourself up for any number of things. You can feel like you’re not allowed to have certain views or opinions for all sorts of reasons. I know this.
But please, please don’t let this stop you from caring. Remember that you are allowed to worry, and it doesn’t have to be to the point of stress. I know that’s not easy for a lot of people. It’s not easy for me. But don’t let anybody tell you that you aren’t doing enough or that what pure doing is wrong. If anyone tries to tell you that you’re not caring enough, don’t listen. You do as much as you can, okay? Please take care of yourself.
I know it’s scary, and you have a lot on your mind, but you don’t have to let it drag you into the depths. If you need to rake a step back from the news, that’s totally okay. Care for yourself too. The world will appreciate your help if you can help, but if you spread goodness and awareness, and you can’t donate easily, you are doing enough.
Be mindful and respectful, and share what you can. Make your support clear. But beyond that, if you can’t do anything else, for any reason, (this can be any internal or external reason, no gatekeeping here) it’s okay. It’s enough. You shouldn’t have to be in such pain like this. I know nobody should be, but it’s okay to take a step back. It’s not selfish, it’s self-care.
