In an era of relentless news cycles, political divisiveness, and constant digital overwhelm, how do we protect our mental health while staying informed and engaged? Join Dr. Valda Crowder (Dr. V), a board-certified emergency medicine physician with 30 years of experience, as she explores the critical topic of psychological safety in today's challenging climate.

This episode tackles the phenomenon psychologists call "chronic ambient stress"—the never-ending background noise of negativity that keeps our stress response systems constantly activated. Dr. V explains what happens to our brains and bodies when we're continuously exposed to troubling headlines, why doomscrolling feels so exhausting, and how "headline stress disorder" impacts our daily lives.

In this episode:

• Understanding the psychology behind our collective anxiety and overwhelm
• Practical strategies to stay informed without burning out
• How to use social media mindfully while protecting your peace
• Managing anxiety about real threats beyond our control (climate change, political instability, economic uncertainty)
• Recognizing and addressing compassion fatigue
• Creating psychological safety for children in uncertain times
• Navigating the suicide crisis and what to do when loved ones are in distress
• Building long-term resilience for sustainable engagement
• The surprising connection between mental and physical health