As I write this, the weight of the world feels almost unbearable. Across the globe, events challenge our humanity, break our hearts, and fuel our anger. The genocide in Palestine continues to take innocent lives, while Lebanon faces a similar onslaught of violence and invasion. These are not isolated incidents but rather the latest in a long history of colonization, occupation, and systemic oppression.
We are witnessing a continuation of deep-rooted power structures that have long inflicted violence upon marginalized and vulnerable communities. From the displacement of Indigenous peoples to the exploitation of natural resources in economically disadvantaged regions, this violence is a direct product of unchecked imperialism, systemic greed, and a dehumanizing disregard for life—in Palestine, Lebanon, Ukraine, Yemen, Syria, Afghanistan, Sudan, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Haiti, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and more. These crises reflect the painful reality of violence perpetuated by states and systems that prioritize control, profit, and dominance over compassion and justice. The suffering of people in these nations is a testament to the global failure to protect human dignity in the face of oppression.
Grieving Together: The Collective Trauma We Share
In times like these, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of suffering. For many of us, these events aren’t just headlines—they are deeply personal. Whether a member of a racialized community or someone with a deep sensitivity to justice, these traumas strike at the very core of our being. We feel the pain of these atrocities as though they are happening to us or to someone we love. In many ways, they are.
It’s essential to recognize the emotional toll that witnessing these global injustices can take. Trauma is not just something that happens in isolated moments—it ripples outward, touching all those who bear witness. When we see images of destruction in Gaza or hear about yet another instance of racialized violence, we are reminded of the systems that dehumanize, oppress, and destroy. And that reminder takes a piece of us with it.
The Therapist’s Reflection: Why This Work Matters Personally
As a therapist, witnessing these injustices can feel like a unique form of heartache. My role is often to guide and support individuals through their personal journeys, but I feel the broader pain of global events deeply. Shared humanity binds us, and when I see such widespread suffering, I am reminded that trauma is not only an individual experience but a collective one.
In my work with clients, I often hear stories of personal pain that mirror the injustices we see on the world stage—stories of violence, oppression, and systemic harm. These stories are connected, and it’s impossible to separate personal healing from the healing that needs to happen at a societal level. This is why standing against injustice is not just an ethical obligation; it’s part of our collective healing journey. We can’t heal the individual without addressing the wounds of the world we live in.
I find it’s crucial for me, as a therapist, to continuously reflect on how I show up in these moments. It’s not enough to be a passive observer of global injustices or the trauma my clients share. I need to take care of myself so that I can continue to care for others—whether that’s through community work, activism, or offering a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for people to process their pain.
The Power of Solidarity and Community
Even in the darkest of times, we have the power to resist. We can choose to care for ourselves and one another. We can choose to stand in solidarity with those who are suffering, to raise our voices, and to demand justice. These moments may feel heavy, but they are also a call to action, a reminder to continue to fight for a world that values dignity, humanity, and compassion above all else.
In these moments of collective pain, we must come together as a community. We must find ways to support one another, to grieve together, and to heal together. The work of justice is not easy, but it is necessary, and it is made bearable when we do it as a collective.
Taking Care of Ourselves in the Midst of Injustice
Last, I want to remind everyone of the importance of self-care during these challenging times. It is easy to become consumed by the pain of the world, but no one can pour from an empty cup. Take time to tend to yourself—step away from the news, connect with loved ones, or engage in practices that nourish your spirit. Remember that rest is an act of resistance. By caring for ourselves, we strengthen our ability to care for others and to continue the fight for justice.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to feel angry, sad, and lost. But let us never forget that we are not powerless. We have the ability to stand up, speak out, and demand a better world. And we can do it together.
Blog by Renu Nijjar, RCC, at Solidarity Therapy Schedule a free 20 minute virtual consultation with Renu, here.