Urban Dictionary defines Flex as follows “To purposely brag, or show off something you have.” Or, something you know that others do not.

Number 1. Highlighting the plight of one group of people over another. And specifically only doing it when one group garners the attention of the world. Did you know that you can bring light to injustices all year without diminishing the pain and suffering of anyone? Telling people that are terrified that their fear is invalid because there are other countries also going through atrocities is not the flex you think it is. Do you know what would be a flex? Validating the humanity of those in crisis by bringing light to those atrocities when you learn about them. Another flex is working to learn about what is happening in the world by avoiding common media sources that have a clear bias. This can be really difficult in this day in age, but remember that if you are looking for your view to be validated, you are succumbing to confirmation bias.

Number 2. Bringing something to light without providing an action to address the complaint that you are making. There is so much shit happening in this world, people are feeling helpless, scared, and an impending sense of doom. Personally, I have dealt with increasing anxiety and depression. One of the spirals that I find myself in is the increasingly devastating events is that I am looking for a way to help. It takes two seconds to remind people that there are humans dying in ways that they should not be.

Number 3. Ignoring the humanity of, well, anyone. When you start comparing numbers, comparing who has it worse, you dehumanize each person you speak of. You can highlight the atrocity of one country without devaluing the humanity of another.

Fuck. Everything is heavy, what should I do?

I am not sure I can give the best advice, but this is how I am coping.

• Learn more about each of the conflicts happening in the world today.
  • Check out the Global Conflict Tracker
  • Donate to reputable charities if you can
• What can you do at home to help make a difference?
  • Check out Volunteer Match to get paired with organizations looking for help
  • Provide assistance to the houseless community
• What can you do to protect your mental health?
  • Search for free mental health services
  • Practice self care, take your prescribed medications, hydrate, unplug from the news and if you are able search for ways to reconnect with people