If you are experiencing severe trauma or significant distress, it's essential to seek professional help from a mental health expert. Here are some self-care strategies that may help:
Take a break and step away: Give yourself permission to step away from screens and the internet. Take a break to engage in activities that bring you comfort and relaxation.
Talk to someone: Reach out to a close friend, family member, or someone you trust to talk about what you saw and how it affected you. Talking about your feelings can help alleviate some of the emotional burden.
Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques: Engage in mindfulness exercises or grounding techniques to bring yourself back to the present moment and reduce anxiety or dissociation.
Limit exposure to distressing content: Avoid watching similar videos or content that could trigger your trauma response. Opt for positive and uplifting content instead.
Engage in self-care: Engage in activities that promote self-care and well-being, such as exercise, spending time in nature, reading, listening to music, or practicing hobbies you enjoy.
Seek professional help: If you find that the distress persists or is interfering with your daily life, consider talking to a mental health professional who can help you process the trauma and develop coping strategies.
Create a safe environment: Surround yourself with supportive and understanding people who can provide emotional support during this time.
Focus on positive media: Consume media that promotes positivity, happiness, and inspiration. This can help counterbalance the negative effects of the disturbing video.
Implement relaxation techniques: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation to calm your nervous system.
Be patient with yourself: Healing from trauma takes time, and it's okay to feel upset or disturbed. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate through the healing process.
Remember, if you are struggling to cope or if the distress persists, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A mental health expert can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.