Ask Sam Letter

Childline Avatars_1_Default.jpg

To Sam

How do i not be scared of the news and all the negativity online? | Ask Sam

Hello. For like round the past 3 months i been feeling anxious about world problems and the world all around. I can't barely avoid the news and it gets me super anxious. This is the longest i had a problems and i feel like its getting worse. Its mainly about like wars, fight and political things. i have to learn about them at school yet they make me feel super anxious on what if it could happened to my family or other people. Im just mainly scared of war and its affect and the negatively online. I hope you can help.

Childline Avatars_1_Ask Sam.jpg

Sam

Hi there,

Lots of young people feel scared or anxious about the news or upsetting events around the world. Focusing a lot on the news can sometimes make things feel more unsafe than they actually are, and it can help to find ways to feel better.

It’s natural to start imagining 'what if' situations when you’ve learned about things happening in the world. Feeling anxious about the future can help us sometimes, but it can also leave us feeling scared when we don’t need to be.

When you’re starting to feel anxious about the future, there are things that can help.

  • Tell your teacher or someone you trust about your worries to get another perspective.
  • Make time to focus on the people and things being done to make sure you and others are safe.
  • Take a break from the news or social media and focus on things you enjoy.
  • Remind yourself that things you see online won’t always be real.
  • Look at ways to cope with how you’re feeling on the Calm Zone.

We’ve got lots of information about worries about the world, and you’re never alone. Remember, it’s always okay to ask for support and to talk about your feelings.

Take care,

Sam

Need help straight away?

You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.

Ask me a question

You can ask me about anything you want, there's nothing too big or small. I read every single letter but I can only answer a few each week. My replies are published here on my page.

Write me a letter