Why I Stepped Back From the News—and Found More Peace

Dear Healed Black Girl,

I have a confession to make.

I’ve distanced myself from politics and the state of the world.
(pausing for an audible gasp)

When I share this with people, I’m often met with a “how could you?” or judgmental stares—like I must not care about people anymore. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.

The truth is—I care deeply. I love people. I believe we’re all human creatures trying to navigate life the best way we can. And for that reason, I stay in community. I hold space for others.

But my experience of consuming politics and global news has often left me feeling depleted, angry, hopeless, frustrated… and most of all, afraid.

And let’s be honest—the media is good at its job: creating fear.

I finally started to see it for what it is—fear campaigns. Fear-mongering.
And I’ve come to this understanding: Fear is the antithesis of peace.
You can’t be at peace while you’re living in fear.

So I made the decision to cut off the outlet that was feeding me fear. And I feel so much lighter.

Now, don’t get me wrong—I still check the news from time to time to get a general sense of what’s going on. But I no longer react. I no longer spiral. Because the truth is, whatever tragedy is unfolding in the world, there’s nothing I can do to stop it. But there is something I can do.

I can be kind.
I can be gentle.
I can be a loving neighbor, a caring friend, a compassionate community member.

I think about how many times a stranger made my day—
Like the time I got free flowers at Trader Joe’s (I still think about that moment).
Or the time I helped an elderly gentleman carry a cart full of items into his building.
Or when a woman stopped me on the street, smiled, and said, “You’re a bad bitch.”
Whew—what a moment.

These little acts of care and connection… they’re what make my corner of the world go ‘round.

No, I can’t stop the wars. I can’t explain all the hatred and violence.
But I can affect small, meaningful change—in my life, and in the lives of the people I meet.

And honestly? That’s enough for me.

I no longer feel guilty for living my life.
And at the same time, I continue to hold space and empathy for those who are suffering.
But my life is my business, and I protect it like my life depends on it.

That means limiting how much fear enters my mind—especially through the news.

Psychologically speaking, this is called an emotional boundary. Something my therapist and I have talked about a lot. It’s been one of the most powerful tools in protecting my peace.

So whether it’s limiting your news intake or limiting someone’s access to you…
How are you maintaining your emotional boundaries?
And have you noticed a difference when you do?

Sending you love, kindness, and peace today.

Follow along on IG: @healedblackgirlmovement

—A fellow Healed Black Girl