Coping With Trauma and Stress When There's Violence in the World

Let's take five minutes to see the week in a new light. By Wendy Rose Gould & Amy Morin, LCSW, Editor-in-Chief
Top of Mind Mental Health Resources for the AAPI Community
Racial discrimination and acts of hate have long been experienced by the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) community. However, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic verbal and physical assaults, civil rights violations, and online harassment against AAPI people has been on the rise. In fact, in a February 2021 report by the Stop AAPI Hate Organization, there were nearly 3,800 incidents that occurred in the past year alone. These ongoing atrocities committed against the AAPI community have left many feeling deeply pained, understandably angry, and unsure of what to do next. It has also had a profound impact on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and traumatic stress.
We can't begin to unite and heal without accountability which includes a recognition of the harm committed. This is our life's work. — Cynthia Choi, Co-Executive Director of Chinese for Affirmative Action
Where to Turn for Resources If you're a part of the AAPI community, nurturing your mental health via professional help, conversations with others, and educational organizations can help. We've created a list of AAPI mental health resources, including the Asian American Psychological Association (AAPA), Asian American Health Initiative (AAHI), and the National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance (NQAPIA). We also share helpful tips for talking to your kids about anti-Asian racism if you're a parent. Educate Yourself as an AAPI Ally There are several ways you can be a strong ally to the AAPI community. The first step is to educate yourself through podcasts and videos, books, social media accounts, and conversations with members of the AAPI community. Additional ways you can be an AAPI ally include reporting hate incidents when you see them, speaking out on social media, shopping at AAPI businesses, and offering monetary support to organizations such as The Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC) and Stop AAPI Hate.
On the Bright Side Ways to Stay Positive This Week
What's Inspiring Us Healthy Minds Innovations (HMI) has launched an innovative meditation app that uses neuroscience, contemplative traditions, and skill-based learning methods to foster a healthier mind. The non-profit organization was founded in 2014 by world-renowned neuroscientist, Dr. Richard Davidson, and is affiliated with the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Randall Bell is a socio-economist who's researched and consulted on major disasters across the world, such as Hurricane Katrina and the BP Oil Spill. His new book, "Post-Traumatic Thriving: The Art, Science, & Stories of Resilience," tells the stories of people who've not only survived trauma, but have used their experiences as fuel to thrive. Ways to Nurture Your Mind and Body This week, make a goal to carve out 30 minutes to thoughtfully ground yourself. Consider one or two of the following suggestions: Go on a walk somewhere earthy—maybe through a park or on a local trail. Sit outside or near an open window without any devices and simply listen, watch, and allow your mind to wander. Pot a new plant or prep your garden. Take your yoga practice outdoors. Head somewhere with a great sunset or sunrise view in your area and take in the view. Products to Help You Feel Your Best Meditation requires us to let go and untangle our minds, which can be tricky to do if you're not physically comfortable. This list of the best meditation cushions can help you achieve mental clarity more efficiently. Personalized vitamin brand, Care/of, just launched a new collection at Target. In addition to multivitamins, the line includes five vitamin "blends" for Relaxation, Energy, Focus, Sleep, and Immunity. Each is $14.99, and you can purchase online, in-stores, or arrange for delivery/pickup.
The Verywell Mind Podcast In case you missed them, catch up on this week's episodes of The Verywell Mind Podcast. How to Make Your Decisions Easier with Life Coach Mike Bayer Mike Bayer shares the one decision you can make that will make all of your other decisions in life much easier. Friday Fix: How to Make Visualization Actually Work for You Whether you're asking for a raise or you want to get healthier, visualization can be a really effective strategy. But, most people tend to use visualization in a way that backfires. Here's why vision boards usually don't work and what you can do instead. Coming this Monday, you'll meet Peloton instructor Kendall Toole and learn how she makes her mental health a top priority. And Friday, Amy shares how to take back your power. Subscribe Now: Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts / RSS
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