Taking a Beat: Self Care in the Middle of Hard News

In this episode, we pause.In response to recent current events, we made the intentional choice to set aside what we had planned and instead focus on care for anyone feeling heavy, activated, or emotionally overwhelmed right now. This is a conversation about how moments like this can land in our bodies, not just our thoughts.We talk about why repeated exposure to stories of sexual violence can be destabilizing, and why being compassionate doesn’t require taking in every detail. We discuss the importance of boundaries—around media, around sharing personal experiences, and around the quiet pressure survivors often feel to explain themselves. Protecting your mental health isn’t avoidance; it’s an act of care.We also sit with the anger and grief that can surface when harm feels ongoing and unresolved. Rather than trying to fix or rush past those feelings, we talk about how to make space for them without being consumed—through limits, support, and gentleness with ourselves.This episode isn’t about analysis or answers. It’s about slowing down, breathing, and remembering that you’re allowed to step back, ask for help, and take care of yourself. If you’re struggling, you’re not broken. You don’t have to carry it alone.If you need someone to talk to, RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7 by chat and phone 24/7.If you’re looking for an online support group, try some of the resources from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center.If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here:  ⁠Show suggestions