Let’s be real: if you’re functioning exceptionally well in this world right now, I’m… a little concerned. Like, are you okay? Do you need help? Blink twice if you’ve achieved inner peace or are just really good at dissociating.

If you find yourself overwhelmed by, oh I don’t know, everything (climate crisis, war, AI doing backflips while rent is one billion dollars), that’s not dysfunction. That’s a very reasonable reaction to an unreasonable world.

Feeling things deeply is not a bug. It’s a feature. You’re not malfunctioning—you’re responding appropriately to a planet that’s both literally and metaphorically on fire.

But somehow, we’ve decided that “wellness” = smiling through the apocalypse while maintaining inbox zero and an uncracked sourdough starter. Say it with me: performing wellness is not the same as being well.

So if you cry at the news, spiral after doomscrolling, or need a nap after reading one (1) headline? Congratulations—you’re not broken. You’re actually very tuned in to what’s happening. You still have your empathy switch turned on, and that’s rare and beautiful.

Of course, take care of yourself. Rest. Hydrate. Go outside. Pet a dog. Go to therapy. And I don’t say those things trivially. Truly, connecting with yourself and your immediate environment can help. But don’t gaslight yourself into thinking your emotional reaction is a personal failure. It’s not you—it’s… well, society.

So next time you’re tempted to shame yourself for not “coping better,” remember: functioning in a dysfunctional world isn’t the “win” we’ve been told it is. You’re not too sensitive. You’re just paying attention.

And now I get to remind you that therapy exists and you can absolutely talk to someone about how to navigate a world that can be deeply upsetting. Check out our therapist profiles and see who might be a good fit for you.