During these anxiety-drenched times, it is helpful to remind one another of how to keep our wits and calm about us. It is all too easy to allow the current chaos and unrest to drive our nervous systems into a state of dread and unrest. Activists who are able to sustain this work for the long haul are those who learn the skills to regulate our emotions and bodies and focus on the present small moments of simple joy while doing the brave work at the macro levels.

bell hooks reminds us that “the practice of love is the most powerful antidote to the politics of domination,” and that our practice of love must include ourselves. Many of us need the gentle and nurturing reminder that anything worth doing is worth doing with enough sleep, nourishment, water, movement, and pleasure. We need to get back to the basics to function well and have the stamina we need for the movement.

Our current environment requires going a step beyond the basics to support our nervous systems that are aware of the deepening threats and instability, and are sounding the alarm bells. You may be noticing that your sleep is disrupted; your appetite and digestion are off; your muscles are tired and tense, and your mood is darker. The good news is that our psyches and bodies are adapted for resilience in the face of challenge.

Simple resiliency strategies with a proven track record for working are those that help to regulate our emotions and nervous systems, which are rapid-cycling through the flight or fight responses. These strategies create a sense of safety and stability, starting with your body.

• One of the fastest ways to interrupt this cycle is to suck on something that is incredibly sour or strong, such as a sour candy or peppermint. This seemingly simple act can gently nudge your system to move into a neutral place.

   

• Similarly, submerging your face in icy cold water or holding an ice pack to your chest can rapidly stop an anxiety attack.

   

• When you cannot sleep or calm your racing thoughts, try box breathing: Begin by inhaling to the count of four, hold your breath for a count of four, exhale for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of four. Repeat this cycle until you notice an increased sense of calm and safety.

   

• Take a social media break. When we are feeling overwhelmed, more information is not better. Focus on your basics and spend the time you would normally be on social media doing things you love and that restore you: time with friends, watching your favorite movie, time in nature, cooking your favorite foods, wearing comfy clothing, playing with your fur babies, etc.

   

• Set boundaries with your time and commitments. While our passion and commitment to the movement are endless, there are limits to our personal capacity. We need time to replenish, to revitalize our engagement, and to connect with our reasons for being – so were member what it is we are fighting for. To do this, we have to say no to actions and invitations that extend us past our limits. It can help to remember that every time we say no to something we say yes to another. Our ability to protect our capacity is what allows us to continue saying yes to this work.

   

We are communal creatures who cannot do this alone. When we find ourselves out of ideas or ability to regulate ourselves, it is the perfect time to reach out to our fellow comrades. Many of us dedicate our movement work to supporting one another.  Our support systems are often our most beautiful forms of support, and sometimes we need something that our inner circle cannot give. When that happens, is important to remember that we are not alone. The following national resources are peer lines who provide support without involving law enforcement or non-consensual rescue. Just folks who have been where you are right now and want to help. We are stronger together!

2SLGBTQIA+:

• Trevor Project
• Suicide and crisis hotline for LGBTQ+ youth.
  • 1-866-488-7386 (24/7)
  • Text START to 678-678

     

• LGBT National Youth Talkline
  • 1-800-246-7743
  • Online Chat: https://lgbthotline.org/chat/

     

• TransLifeLine
  • A trans-led organization that offers direct support for trans folx in crisis.
  • 1-877-565-8860
  • http://translifeline.org

   

• SAGE LGBT Elder Hotline
  • For elder LGBT people who want to talk.
  • 1-877-360-5428
  • https://www.sageusa.org/hearme/

BIPOC:

• Blackline
  • 24-hour hotline for the Black, Brown, Native American, Muslim, and LGBTQI communities.
  • 1-800-604-5841
  • http://www.callblackline.com

     

• Spanish-Speaking SAMHSA National Helpline
  • Spanish-speaking counselors supporting the Latinx community who are in crisis or need referrals to ongoing support and resources
  • 1-800-273-8255

   

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, en Español
  • Spanish-speaking counselors supporting the Latinx community who are in crisis or need referrals to ongoing support and resources
  • 1-888-628-9454

General:

• Teen Lifeline
  • Teen peer hotline for teens who just need to talk or feel like they are in crisis
  • Call or text 1-800-248-8336

     

• SAMHSA National Helpline
  • English-speaking counselors supporting the general community who are in crisis or need referrals to ongoing support and resources
  • 1-888-628-9454

This blog was written by River McKenzie, who is not only our fearless Director of People and Culture, but also has over 20 years of experience in community mental health and addiction counseling.