@@cliveramsbotty6077 I use the internet to source my information from a limitless number of independent small content creator's, which is why all the Intel suggests there will be a cyber attack coming to shut the system down as too many people are turning away from the indoctrination and sourcing the truth for themselves.
@@cliveramsbotty6077 If you want to releave the stress you get from the news. You need to realise that even if you see ant talk to but a few people a day you will have conversations about the most important news. Therefore you dont need to wach the news at all (I have found and with me a lot of others) the most important news will reach you, and in a much less impactfull way, releaving your stress. Realise thed whenever you hear the news, its a rare occurense that you can have an influense on it.
My wife died on Tuesday. I've taken complete avoidance of any news since as I don't have any mental space in order to cope with it. Thank you for this video. It helped. Much love to all of my beautiful brothers and sisters out there. Stay strong x
Thank you for this! It's just the sort of kick up the arse I needed to get out of the rut. I got out yesterday on the bike into the country side, was a guilt free ride and I was able to absorb the environment, totally took me away from everything. This morning, I started hitting that 'I'm not interested' button on YT today against all the war news as I could instantly feel myself going back into the rut. Also, totally agree on journaling! The book "mind journal: this book will make you stronger" was a great introduction to journaling and I would highly recommend it :)
Good talk Nick, The quick about me :22 LEO, with 7 years on the Bomb Squad. I want to say to all that stress and panic are multiplied when we start the day with more bad news. If any is suffering from PTSD please find/ask for help. If the first person you talk with doesn't work, that's okay. Keep looking! It took me three times to find the right one. Don't start the day with electronics, and don't end the night with them. The Sun rises and sets slowly and we should do the same.
Don't start the day with electronics, and don't end the night with them. Unless you work in the electronics repair business. But it's always coffee first and beer last for me ;)
I am a veteran, and I got home back in 1977. And to this day, old feelings make their presence known on occasion, and if I let them, these feelings can and do trigger old memories I'd rather forget.
My strategy is to remind myself that it happenened to an early younger version of the person that I am today. It has made me stronger for getting through it.
Thank you Nick. Years ago i was traveling through India, i saw a man sat by the path in little but rags. He smiled as i approached, and and i sat for while . He said that he was a Sadhu, (Hindu holy man. ) He gestured that i looked troubled.. ...then said something that has stayed with me forever.Nag Panchaya... Later i returned to my hostel... I asked a man to translate it.... "Be a porter at the gates of your mind" .... I have tried to ,every day since.
Thanks again Nick 👍 forgot to say that i will carry that phrase on my next big walk Two moors way across Devon and Somerset in 3 weeks time . ATVB2U and yours Scott Somerset
I’ve worked in Ukraine and have a personal connection. My old team are still there and there’s been at least one casualty. Being unable to do something was stressful but I’ve found a way of contributing with voluntary work for fundraising plans for bomb disposal there. Hopefully I can get back in there to help tidy up.
Great talk Nick ! This isn't the first time that the ugliness of war has been recorded, but this is the first time when people can actually see it LIVE. I've not seen combat, but have responded to a lot of violent deaths. I wasn't addicted to the live war news, rather I wanted to hear what the leaders of our respective countries had to say. And inevitably the news would go "live" to Kiev etc... after seeing a family of 4 get taken out by a mortar shell "live", that was it for me. And this also brings back the sage words of my former commanding officer who's words to the news junkies were "how is your life to be made any better by constantly watching and hearing all the bad news?". I can't see any benefits to any of it. We don't have to be callous or insensitive to other people's plight, but we can't let affect us to the point where it's harmful to us.
Thanks so much for this. I have anxiety disorder along with autism which makes me absorb more details than the average person, which has been very overwhelming. Because of a personal situation that is already causing me a lot of pain and trauma, all the news about Ukraine has pushed me to the limits of my processing power. It's hard not to feel guilty for not caring more about Ukraine or for wanting to switch off from it all. Thank you for saying that it's ok to let the war go in our minds and to prioritise our own pain and trauma first.
I must admit seeing some of the footage reminded me of my time.I did bosnia twice and Kosovo.again in Europe,reduced to tears through frustration that this is happening again
This, is probably one of the most amazing videos you have ever posted Nick. I am a Brit, living in Poland, and to give perspective, I am probably as close to danger where I live, as you are to me. That said, you are 100% spot on in your observation of the narrative. You and I can only control our own attitude and actions, nothing else. You and your family are amazing and totally inspiring. thank you x
Thanks Nick. Good sense as ever 👍. I stopped watching the news during Covid, when the media ignored whatever else was happening in the world… caffeine and sugar: that’s a harder addiction to break 😂😏
Just recently got hooked on this channel - really nice content. As Ukrainian living through all this I would like that noone in peaceful and cultural world have ever experienced any bit of such horrors. Peaceful people just don't deserve it. However, me and other Ukrainian people very appreciate any kind of support from the word. It is nice to understand that we are not alone. As for the mental state, in any case the first thing you need do is try to be the most effective, efficient and concise. Hitting those extreme sides like being indifferent (apathy) and panic, may be equally harmful. But usually the cause is the same - being overwhelmed. Yep, the best thing is at least to do something, do sports, fresh air, do you job or things that you do the best and/or like the most.
Great comments form you Nick. I really appreciate that you are creating awareness reg our unhealthy habits of media consumption and whatnot could do to us. One point to add: I find the major challenge not so much in the practises throughout the day once I’m aware of my unhealthy ones. The challenge in my opinion is before that: esp when it comes to questions of survival or those we deem relevant to be that way (or get them fed in that way by the media to sell clicks) our brain acts based on system 1, the “auto, fast” brain. ( referring here to D Kahmemann) so a good practise of mindfulness is essential for me to even be aware when I slip into bad habits. I think your mentioning of gaining perspective serves a similar purpose. Learning this kind of self awareness keeps me sane even in critical situations
It's a shame all these people getting so passionate about Ukraine but when it comes to our own country going to Hades and sold out by the very Parliament meant to protect us, it's greeted with at best apathy.
Haven't watched or listened to the news or read a newspaper in don't know how long, in my opinion they tell you what they want you to know, as I say that only my opinion
I find watching steel forging to make amazing swords and knives works best for me to calm down. Watching how many times the steel is folded and forged is the best part.
Hello from British Columbia Canada 🇨🇦👍👋♥️ 🌧☂️ not very long ago in our history 🧠 Great vista, I try to get out every day Journal Wear noise cancelling headphones Paint/draw
I have a very inquisitive mind. I need to know what is happening in the world but, I know that it's not healthy to wallow in it. Every day at around ten o'clock, I have what I refer to as the briefing. Almost like a morning meeting if you will. I look at a couple of trusted websites, I find out what has happened and is likely to happen and that's it. I'm well aware that "trusted" means different things to different people but, that's a decision you make for yourself. I then go about my day taking care of all the things I need to take care of.
Hi Nick, all really great advice for anyone dealing with anxiety, whatever the reason. Something I would add, which I've only become aware of recently, is to be careful of empathy, especially emotional empathy (feeling others pain, as opposed to just understanding it). I know that sounds odd but too much does you no good, in the same way as too much media. It was always something which I struggled with so I had been making a concerted effort to develop my skills in this area; the thing was thought it was just making me more anxious and unhappy. Everywhere I looked I saw others suffering, whether it was online or people I know, even animals, and it would just become utterly overwhelming. Then I read a book called The Problem With Empathy (can't remember the author of the top of my head) which explains that emotional empathy is not helpful, it tends to cause us to freeze in simulated misery. Whereas *compassion* is much more useful as it tends to spur action. Obviously this is an incredibly simplified description but I agree with the jist. Now I am very much more careful with how I deploy my empathic abilities.
Thanks for this! I can’t even imagine what PTSD feels like but I struggle with anxiety and depression. Your perspective on mental health and the outdoors has been SO great for me. I’ve been trying to force myself to ignore my instinct to crawl in a hole and instead get out into the woods and learn new skills. Your content has been a huge encouragement for that so…. THANKS! I appreciate your willingness to be transparent.
Very well put nick as you say bad news is rammed down you throat repeatedly all day , I myself know that wars are terrible things and unfortunately it's worldwide I do as you suggest I head to the woodland with a good book and practice Bushcraft skills for me total relaxation I do wish these wars could end tomorrow but we'll have to wait and see to stop this killing of innocent women and children 🙏♠️
Great talk,TED. (That’s a reference to the TED Talks comment for those of you who don’t get my subtle obtuse humor). I self-edit my news intake so that I receive just enough to stay abreast of current events but not enough to beat my psyche down to a blithering pulp. It was the same over the last five years on the political news front. Thumbs up from America, my friend. Keep helping us through the bad times and sharing the good times. SDR from Northwest Virginia, USA.
Media or not, disaster or not, spending too much time doing nothing but letting my mind go hamsterwheeling isn't ever good for me. I'll feel anxious even when there's nothing to feel anxious about. Fatigued even (and especially) when I haven't gotten much done. Intense physical exercise, and working through a list of things that I've been putting off that have been gently weighing on me in the background for weeks or months is an essential form of self-therapy to get out of my head. It forces me out of abstractions & makes me focus on things that are tangible & achievable & even if I don't do particularly well, I'll come off feeling like I've progressed in something.
I no longer give any value to msm. I have been a student of history. Knowing the nazi history and current actions in Ukraine. Seeing fake footage used again and again on the news I filter things out. I am a Christian and I love by there is no fear in Christ. I had a stroke last year and putting my energy into healing and luring to walk again. I seek first the things of God. Second I talk to my wife about the things I have found both stressful and the thing that have given me joy. Share learn and grow. Never feel embarrassed by your emotions God gave them to us. I’ve got into green craft as a relaxing task. It also helps me get some hand strength back. I was stuck in Bed for almost 9 months. In the Lord is my peace.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 I mean ‘Be positive’, at all times…I can’t get stressed, by what is happening in The Ukraine. Tell me honestly. If I get stressed about it, will it help anyone? No. Stay well.
Excellent! Thank you. Picking up the guitar now. Nature is always a great cure. I think if the internet was gone, we'd all be more connected and stable humans. Hope everyone has a beautiful day 🙂✌
Greath thoughts and video once again... its far too easy to focus on the bad things happening specially the ones we tend to think are closer to us (really nasty stuff happening in Africa every second and no word on it... because its far and different for most people and Ukrain is (as I ve heard ) "people like us" :( I don t check the news as often as I used to because it thrives on negativity... as you just said... focusing on the one thing we can control. us . Thank you.
Spot on it's like a kettle the pressure builds up an it's ok to just let it out like a kettle let's out Steam. Emotions are like waves we have ups and downs. Each day will be different take each one as it comes & be kind and respectful to each other 👍
Another great video Nick, some really good pointers in this, highlighting some basic techniques that most of us probably already know but brings it back to the forefront! Looking forward getting your book delivered this week!
Hi Nick! Could you please, make a video about how do you transform /or turn saline water into drinking water? I'm highly appreciate it. And I'm sure many of your viewers will benefit from it. Just a few alternative natural things, you think will be helpful. Thank you for this video and all the information you share with many people.
Hi Nick, hang in there brother .👊! Hope you and your family are doing great. Keep the videos coming bud. Stay safe and be well. Strength and Honor...From a mate across the pond 👍.
I stopped watching the news. Stopped reading comments/ watching political videos. I feel so much better. Journalists love bad news. My life doesn't improve by hearing it.
Couldn’t agree more Nick. Fortunately I don’t suffer from PTSD or much else. I’m a regular guy making way through life but we all have stress in life through one thing or another and the outdoors is simply the best reset. Simply making a fire and having a hot drink with family or friends is just unbelievably relaxing. I actually find your Chanel and others similar to be absolutely inspiring THANK YOU
Thanks a lot for the reminder. I can certainly relate to a lot, and its always nice to get some insight into how other people deal with it. As always, a very good video and more importantly very helpful!
Nick, Great vid mate! I totally agree with everything you said. However, I see what's happening I hear what's happening and all I want to do is live a happy chill life. But, knowing this is happening and has been since the beginning of mankind, I still can't help wanting to go fight with and for an innocent, peaceful, non aggressive by nature country who are fighting themselves for their own existence. Maybe I'm wrong but that's my prerogative. I still say DEATH TO TYRANTS AND TRAITORS! DAMN THEM ALL TO HELL! Anywho, on a lighter note hope all is well with you and the fam. Take care.
Great Video. Set me off crying again. What's the purpose of life? - To help others and you're doing it. A few years ago my daughter-in-law was in our living room, on the phone to her Babuschka in Awdewka (on the front just south of Bachmut), as a shell hit the tree outside the window of the flat. The tree saved Babuschka's life. It was then I realised how in our connected world, it's almost impossible keep distance. I go fishing, don't catch much, but to sit on the bank, looking at the water helps a lot. My wife and friends help a Ukrainian community here. One friend is russian, at first she asked "how can I face these people who are being attacked by my country?". She is now accepted and loved by many, although some still object to her only speeking russian. My thoughts are with all the common people on both sides, who are suffering this war. Keep well.
I love the message here. I wont lie for the first 6 months ish Ukraine stressed the sh** out of me due to use of the `N` word. Also last year I split from my wife, staring at my 2nd divorce and all of our joint `friends` dropped me like a bad habit . Alone in a flat near London sobbing as The Boss (Her Majesty) had just passed away I considered some very dark things. One friend was there in spades and still is, a serving `Royal`. I`m starting to sort myself, I keep my mind busy by trying to learn a language (Welsh of all things 🙄) teaching myself the guitar and Im starting to look into Zen. I have cut all news media out of my life and all social media save Insta, where I follow who I want to hear from, uplifting positive people. My passion is wild camping in the Black mountains in Wales. I decompress sooo much there it`s unbelievable. The outdoors in any weather is a tonic beyond anything from a Dr. Love the channel. Stay strong 👍
Excellent Nick. Proper respect peace and love brother💙✌️Think I’ve even been frying the head of my therapist. Excellent video and very accurate bro. Wise man mate keep on growing your authentic ways pal. God bless🙏💯
Thanks a lot for this one, and your content in general! As a German, this entire Ukraine thing resonates with me for a different reason. I've got ancestors, who went to Ukraine, probably having been fed similar propaganda to what Russians are exposed to nowadays. Some of them, like my grand uncle, stayed there. He was buried in Ukrainian soil a long time ago, just the age of 21. He was certainly fighting for the wrong cause, but did that make him a bad person? I see all this talk about the "bad Russians" and wonder how many of them are stuck there, struggling with the wrong people for the wrong reasons. Of course, I feel with the Ukrainian people, who are occupied, just like our country was. But I also try not to fall for that "good vs bad" narrative. Not that long ago, we used to be the bad nazis. Now it's the bad Russians. I just hope that the Russian people will wake up and solve their real problems, so that both them and the Ukrainians won't have to suffer any more.
I have been thinking about this situation. I have seen a war propaganda poster for the British public here that tells us "German soldiers eat babies, its a fact" The anti Russian propaganda we get now in western Europe is similar to the anti German propaganda of 80 years ago. When Governments and media do this to their own people, to focus them onto the enemy of the day it makes war possible. What a shame for the people of Ukraine that it has taken action from Russia to get the Ukraine government to talk to the rebel regions when they were supposed to do this in 2015, do you know about the Minsk Agreements?
@@utubeape well, I like eating babies, but they're pretty expensive these days. Seriously though, my point was about people dying on both sides. There is nothing good about that. We've lived in the unprecedented comfort of almost 80 consecutive years of peace in Europe. Because we stopped settling our differences militarily. It was simply not an option. Now, the Russian government is putting that option back on the table. We can't have that. Mr. Chamberlain tried to appease Hitler and we all know how that went. So I'm pleased to see the world is not making the same mistake again, though you might argue that we should have responded to the annexation of Crimea already, and more forcefully. But we need to keep in mind that it's the Russian people who ultimately carry their government, or drop them. We need to get off this good vs evil thing and enable the Russian people to make their own decision. That is to say, support the ones who oppose this war. Many Germans turned to the BBC'S world service in WWII to get a different story than the official Wochenschau narrative. We need to help the Ukrainians fight off the Russian forces, while at the same time we need to support the Russian opposition. At least, that's my five cents from a German point of view. Friends can turn into enemies and the other way around.
Totally agree fella! Try my best to avoid news. Not that I dont care, I absolutely do, but I need to keep myself above water. Key for me (as motivation been lost over last few years), is I ALWAYS have a bag packed ready to grab and go out. Day pack stuff with emergency food/- water etc. Even some little weights in there for fitness. Camping stuff out on display in my dining room next to it (obviously single haha!). Most of the times I've bailed on going out, has been because of the thought of packing and hunting stuff out. Sounds pathetic but the mind is a funny thing. Since i started having the bag ready, I've been out so much more. Heading out now to grab a whopping turkey tail mushroom I spotted last week. Cheers fella, great vid
Awesome and timely video. I try to unplug and make short term goals. Making a batch of coffee and quietly sipping on it the very early morning and taking time to enjoy the moment. That’s my reason to get up and start living again. Though sometimes the”old me” slips back into my headspace, making me hyper vigilant. Currently working with kids from the region and recognize some of these signs in them. I try to get them to unplug and just be kids again, laughing 😝 and being silly 🙃. They usually walk away with a smile 😊 on their faces and thank me for letting them be “ goofy” 🤪 kids. Cheers 🍻, take care and stay frosty.🌲🇨🇦🏕🇬🇧🌲
Thanks for that talk. It really resonated. So much good advice. And yeah, not eveyone with ptsd was in the armed forces. Thanks for the inclusive language.
Atta boy! Well said! Personally, my faith gives me perspective as well. Much like the top of that hill you're on, it helps me see a bigger picture and one with ultimate hope & purpose at the end. Your words were truth and well suited to where we find ourselves today. Thank you for the excellent reminder! 👍🏻🇨🇦
100% RIGHT. Turn the blue screen off. You said Sleep was important, That's for sure. Many head trauma's my sleep is all messed up, then the stuff on the blue screen set's me off, Your right do some thing that put's you in the happy zone. I chop wood and garden.
Thank you for this. Realise I had fallen in to a rut and actually caught myself early. Been filling my days in the garden and finding little tasks to do. Had my parents visit and spent quality time with family. I have found exercise and making achievable measurable (SMART) goals. Thank you so much for this truly a topic we as veterans need to keep discussing amongst ourselves and with friends.
Lots of blessings to your family and you Nick and the rest of the world 🌎 sorry I haven’t been able to watch lately just trying to make good memories with my kids I haven’t been able to see for a 2 years my son mostly now that we are fully you know jabbed up 💉😂and thanks in going to shear your video’s with my son , and oh really you saw a crocodile 🐊 near the river didn’t know the UK had them you know the make a good pair of Jump boots 👢😂👍👌✌️🇺🇸
Hi Nick. I've just subscribed to your channel and I have to say, I can't get enough of it. Not only are your lessons, tips and advice well presented and I'm learning much, but I must also applaud you for your honesty when it comes to mental health. It's a tough subject especially for men, as a sufferer it's refreshing to hear a "blokey bloke" saying it's ok to cry. As for my tips to avoid mental stress. I don't watch TV, I don't read newspapers, I limit my access to social media. And the phone goes away a couple of hours before bed, preferably into another room.
Props for putting this together and for being very honest and open. When I've been asked about PTSD and more importantly the treatment I had, I make it very clear that the 8 months of counselling sessions with a CPN allowed me to offload in a controlled environment, without judgement and absolute confidentiality, but that the outcome wasn't a 'cure' but a desensitisation. It was a mechanism to at least in part process what I'd been through and it provided me with some ways to manage PTSD. To quote the late great Robin Williams talking about giving up alcohol, 'I'm the same asshole, I just have fewer dents in my car'. My tv broke a year or two ago (I've actually forgotten how long it's been) and I didn't replace it, so my exposure to the news has been far less than it would have been and I think that has helped significantly with what is going on right now. I've certainly read posts or comments from fellow veterans and colleagues from the Army that have been triggered, and they've taken themselves off social media, or deliberately taken themselves away for a trip away from the noise. Echoing other comments, thanks for sharing this.
Great video. When I treat anyone (ranging from Special Operators and Emergency Services Personnel all the way through to brave single-mums on welfare) suffering PTSD or anxiety or any kind I remind them , as you have also suggested, that we cannot control everything outside of ourselves, but we can work towards control of our own thoughts and actions. It takes practice, but it's so worthwhile. Focussing on the 5 ft in front of you is a great start - it bring the overwhelm of the whole world into a much smaller and manageable size. And ironically, the opposite - when you take yourself away onto nature, with its expansive vistas, allows you to see just how huge and amazing the natural world is. In that escape you can calm your mind down and reset your stress levels - better thoughts and solutions come from a calmer mind too. Love the Videos - keep up the great work. Such an important message in this troubling time.
I love all your videos, and always give them the old "thumbs up". I would just like to say that I would give this one a thousand "likes", if possible. Keep up the good work!
I've taken 24 hrs to think about this video before adding a comment.. . You're so right. I was watching youtube guff about various world events and decided to block all the channels I'd never heard of before. Social media pervades, we should process our own thoughts first.
Wise words Nick, I only did one tour of FRY Vitez 93 and having this in my face 24/7 has been no good at all. No Good. Listening to the amount off loss and trauma has been traumatic and distracting as well as emotionally debillitating. Grounding is an important thing, sometimes we forget how much so even after any type of therapy we can still get lost.
Hi Nick. I'm fortunate. I moved to Torquay 25 years ago and when I get stressed, that distant horizon is just 15 minutes away. That's why i took up sea fishing. I like to lure fish. Somehow, i can be aware of what the lure is doing and be switched off at the same time. It helps me sort my head out and put things into perspective. After watching this video, I have realised, I get up, get a coffee and look at my phone to catch up with the world. Time for a change. Time to start the day with a book instead of looking at my phone. Wish me luck.
I stop watching news I don't see things which I cannot control of. I am focusing on my inner being inner happiness. Now I am studying Herbal plants. Thank you brother It's good speech.
Who ever still watching MSM really need a reality check! Turn it off and go live your life!! Best thing I did over 10 years ago... stopped watching TV 🤜🏻🤛🏻
When I wake up, I get a cup of tea, look out at the garden, then sit down and do some meditation (box breathing) for a few minutes...I find it helps "ground" me for the day. In terms of the injustices in the world, I feel we are often just passive observers (scrolling through the internet) ..much better if we became active..donated some money, joined a community organisation, etc.. cliche, but be part of the change we want to see in the world.
Breath work. Lofty Wiseman the sas fella talks about it and it works. Breathe in through nose for 5 seconds. Hold breath for 5 seconds. Then out through mouth for 5 seconds. It's great at reducing anger, rage, stress and emotional upset. It can also sort out irregular heart rhythms, I speak from personal experience on this. Fresh air, nature and being active in mind and body helps too. This is indeed an evil world full of evil people so everything we can do to fight it helps. Turn off the tv and never turn back on. Never buy news papers, full of b.s. and utter mind controlled lies and nonesense. Use the internet to learn..........then switch it off.
I can’t watch the news because of what’s happening at the moment, because it’s too distressing. It’s not because I don’t care, I just find it too much. I couldn’t watch the news when the constant lockdowns/Covid news was on because it was really getting to me, and social media didn’t/doesn’t help. I had to go out and try to relax my mind yesterday because I was feeling I was on ghe edge, so went to the New Forest, which I find helps. Great tips Nick, thanks.
Thats amazing, I'm lucky to have not seen or experienced many of the things your subscribers have but I do get anxious and the way you present the coping strategies and talk about it is really helpful. Thanks.
Brilliant insights! I've been getting into Bushcraft and it's such a great way to get exercise and keep mentally active. If I goto bed with stress on my mind.. I wake up even more stressed and it totally ruins my whole day, but after a day in the woods building whatever (I want to get into carving more) I get home with a sense of pride and am completely knackered. All I think about is what I want to achieve next .. but when I'm stuck at home I get frustrated, all my problems know where to find me :( Thanks for the wise words! Very deep.
Hi Nick great advice, like to cut up small branches for my Bush box with the thicker stuff like to make tent pegs. I try not to watch the news I don't buy newspapers anymore. But you can't totally shield yourself from it so I go and do something I enjoy
We're probably the same age but I'm saying thankyou SIR for a reality check. Thankyou for trying to do ur part to snap people out of this collage of emergency and terror and grief. Be well sir.
Thank you Nick, that really helped. I'm avoiding the news, never ending analysis, opinions etc etc and find myself feeling guilty for not watching, for not trying to share the pain these people are going through. As you say, these events trigger PTSD and I know this and I will weight train and walk every day to get the endorphins I need to feel better, although I do wonder if my coping method may be a punishment as much as a cure?
I am a Para Reg veteran from Operation Banner and Op Telic thank you and thank you for all the other comments. This stuff really does what it says on the label. 👍👍👍
I’ve just seen this video. The Ukraine situation has certainly knocked the scab off my PTSD. I found myself wanting to actually go and volunteer. This feeling was as ridiculous as it was real. I managed to find a project to fill my time and head! Great video.
No I'm not stressed by what's happening in Ukraine 😂 I stopped watching liberal mainstream propaganda news ages ago. Bad for your mental health in the least.
I wasn't getting any vids that you posted latley I'm so so glad you covered this topic and that l caught it. Thank You Nick! It's funny I'm such a chicken l avoid them clicks if it's got a warning, it's warning for a reason. It's hard to unsee what's been seen so I'm avoiding the news lately.
Good advice. In the 1990's I became fixated on watching coverage on television of the wars in Croatia, and then Bosnia. Atrocity followed atrocity, and I became angry and then depressed because I thought that someone should do something to stop the conflict. In the end, as you have said, I realized that I personally could do nothing to influence these terrible events for the better. My solution was to stop watching these conflicts on television, and to follow their progress in only very general terms.
A timely, carefully phrased set of thoughts that are apposite, for us and many others we suspect. You have the happy ability to communicate important concepts in straightforward terms, and for this, we are very grateful to you, your family and business through the channel. Top job. We're lucky in that the last week of good weather saw us in a rural environment without mobile or TV, and kept away from the corrosive 24hr News cycle. Birdsong prevailed in our ears for the whole week, and it was a great mental reset. Keep up what you do, and thanks from us.
Wow, re-reading this a moment ago makes me want to run away from the corporate cr*p that I experienced at work; I'm sorry if it reads that way to your viewers, but I hope that you appreciate our support.
Hi, just watched your video and for me, i have never followed or watched the news, nor even read a news paper tbh, i dont believe half of whats said or wrote so, only certain things will intrege me. Im dyslexic and suffer with ptsd and anxiety too so certain things i just block out. Hard to do sometimes when as u say its on every channel or post on media platforms. I look for things to keep me occupied, hobbies etc n that helps me alot. Anyway, enough speil, lol, love your videos, very educational.
Thank you for making this video. I've heard similar things said before but this was far more relevant to me. Getting stressed about the Ukraine situ is something I've not been kind to myself over. Getting stressed out interspersed with thoughts and feelings of "buck your ideas up ya pussy, you're not in the shit, they are..." and really beat myself up about it. You just reiterated all the things I needed to tell myself. That it's not my fault, and that our brains are like this for a reason. That and the fact I have an underlying mental condition. Thank you for taking the time to do this. The journal is a good idea I may just start one. Take care. C.
Reading up and trying to practice situational awareness in the hope that I would carry myself better as I go thro daily activities. Fascinating topic, definitely a life skill. The challenge is to actually have the wherewithal to click it in when you go into a store for example. So easy, at least for me, to be the uncontrolled air head which has avoidable stressful consequences
Thanks nick, I came to this some years back. Its ouside your circle of controle. You get more then the detail you need from other people. I stoped waching the news about ten years ago on a regular basis. I will wacht news only when I seek ik out to get particular information. What it seems to me is that the news is grown more and more populist in the past 20 years. Le order of news items is no longer based on the same ranking of importance (atleast here in the Netherlands as well as in other countries) popular and even pop culture items often come before news of importance. Ps. Yes, carving is like meditation, I just love carving spoons!
I can't help feeling bad that my daily struggle is to find cheap diesel or choose something for dinner. Meanwhile there are some horrific war crimes being committed in Europe. This stuff is pretty close to us. Thanks for this video though.
Nailed it. I have books to read and incense to burn, but for some reason I get up every morning and instantly engage in doom-scrolling. Thank you for that insight.
We all have the option to chose what we see, what we hear, the information we chase. The internet, instant information, instant gratification lead us down that rabbit hole and we get drawn into what is going on. Granby, the Gulf War, was the first conflict that effectively became the first television war and, in being so, blurred the line's between reality and the movies. People started to lose the ability to differentiate between fiction and reality, and, in the process, we started to lose a part of our humanity. No-one for one instant, think that I am in any way trying to detract from the loss and suffering going on in the Ukraine, my thought's and prayer's are with them daily, but how much of that suffering we as individuals chose to expose ourselves to is entirely up to us. We all have the choice to either watch what mainstream media is broadcasting or, as you say, get out, detach ourselves from the situation and ground ourselves. It does not matter if, like yourself, you live in the countryside, or you live in a city, pretty much everyone has a park or some open space nearby, to which they can retreat, stop, and breathe. Focus on what surrounds you, center yourself, and remember, you are in control. SVPPB
Spot on. Mindfulness is the key. You're right about not fighting the negatives. Allow them to flow. Its so easy to get swamped down with the media. It was so clear how saturated we got with Covid news now it's been almost entirely replaced with the same level of saturation with Ukraine. Both are important but it just shows the control the media has in how much we receive.
Thanks Nick for the boot up the bum. When I found myself crying in a Teams meeting at work the other day I knew I had to do something, am off work at the moment. I have decided to learn morse code, I have always wanted to do but have never got very far so now I have some time that I can use to focus on me I will. I am going to try the journaling. Thanks again Nick, take care.
Regarding the wheat production in Ukraine, don't worry about it - I have been listening to some Russian soldiers complaining that they are operationally hamstrung because they have been told to stay out of the fields because it is planting season!
You describe some of the reasons I started bushcrafting. I had a stressful job in banking and came across a man who said when is the last time I watched the clouds and enjoyed God's creation. He was right and I remember the first time I went back into the woods for over thirty years and stopped and just looked around. I felt silly at first, but soon found it was where I should be.
![NOSFERATU - Official Trailer [HD] - Only In Theaters December 25](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/nulvWqYUM8k/mqdefault.jpg)
Stopped watching the MSM and switched off the TV 11 years ago best thing I ever done.
curious to hear where you source information from now... alternative, non-tv media?
@@cliveramsbotty6077 I use the internet to source my information from a limitless number of independent small content creator's, which is why all the Intel suggests there will be a cyber attack coming to shut the system down as too many people are turning away from the indoctrination and sourcing the truth for themselves.
@@Yougottalaugh-p9u great job!
Me too. Got tired of all the psy-ops.
@@cliveramsbotty6077 If you want to releave the stress you get from the news. You need to realise that even if you see ant talk to but a few people a day you will have conversations about the most important news. Therefore you dont need to wach the news at all (I have found and with me a lot of others) the most important news will reach you, and in a much less impactfull way, releaving your stress. Realise thed whenever you hear the news, its a rare occurense that you can have an influense on it.
My wife died on Tuesday. I've taken complete avoidance of any news since as I don't have any mental space in order to cope with it. Thank you for this video. It helped. Much love to all of my beautiful brothers and sisters out there. Stay strong x
Stay strong!
I am so deeply sorry. Life and the Blessings of Life be upon you.
Thank you for this! It's just the sort of kick up the arse I needed to get out of the rut. I got out yesterday on the bike into the country side, was a guilt free ride and I was able to absorb the environment, totally took me away from everything. This morning, I started hitting that 'I'm not interested' button on YT today against all the war news as I could instantly feel myself going back into the rut. Also, totally agree on journaling! The book "mind journal: this book will make you stronger" was a great introduction to journaling and I would highly recommend it :)
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 well, I don't watch tv at all. I seek out for natural things. Thanks for the video and advices.
Good talk Nick, The quick about me :22 LEO, with 7 years on the Bomb Squad. I want to say to all that stress and panic are multiplied when we start the day with more bad news. If any is suffering from PTSD please find/ask for help. If the first person you talk with doesn't work, that's okay. Keep looking! It took me three times to find the right one. Don't start the day with electronics, and don't end the night with them. The Sun rises and sets slowly and we should do the same.
❤️👍🙏
Don't start the day with electronics, and don't end the night with them. Unless you work in the electronics repair business. But it's always coffee first and beer last for me ;)
Be well Josh, we have some knowledge of the background you've experienced.
@@PaulaXism See I had that backwards:)
I am a veteran, and I got home back in 1977. And to this day, old feelings make their presence known on occasion, and if I let them, these feelings can and do trigger old memories I'd rather forget.
My strategy is to remind myself that it happenened to an early younger version of the person that I am today. It has made me stronger for getting through it.
Hi from Syracuse NY USA brother and thank you for sharing your thoughts and adventures
Thank you Nick. Years ago i was traveling through India, i saw a man sat by the path in little but rags. He smiled as i approached, and and i sat for while . He said that he was a Sadhu, (Hindu holy man. ) He gestured that i looked troubled.. ...then said something that has stayed with me forever.Nag Panchaya... Later i returned to my hostel... I asked a man to translate it.... "Be a porter at the gates of your mind" .... I have tried to ,every day since.
Thanks again Nick 👍 forgot to say that i will carry that phrase on my next big walk Two moors way across Devon and Somerset in 3 weeks time . ATVB2U and yours Scott Somerset
I’ve worked in Ukraine and have a personal connection. My old team are still there and there’s been at least one casualty. Being unable to do something was stressful but I’ve found a way of contributing with voluntary work for fundraising plans for bomb disposal there. Hopefully I can get back in there to help tidy up.
Great talk Nick ! This isn't the first time that the ugliness of war has been recorded, but this is the first time when people can actually see it LIVE. I've not seen combat, but have responded to a lot of violent deaths. I wasn't addicted to the live war news, rather I wanted to hear what the leaders of our respective countries had to say. And inevitably the news would go "live" to Kiev etc... after seeing a family of 4 get taken out by a mortar shell "live", that was it for me. And this also brings back the sage words of my former commanding officer who's words to the news junkies were "how is your life to be made any better by constantly watching and hearing all the bad news?". I can't see any benefits to any of it. We don't have to be callous or insensitive to other people's plight, but we can't let affect us to the point where it's harmful to us.
Sadly the people who control the mainstream media have absolutely ZERO interest in making our lives better. They only care about their interests
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 indeed. It's not lots of things... Honest being just one
Thanks so much for this. I have anxiety disorder along with autism which makes me absorb more details than the average person, which has been very overwhelming. Because of a personal situation that is already causing me a lot of pain and trauma, all the news about Ukraine has pushed me to the limits of my processing power. It's hard not to feel guilty for not caring more about Ukraine or for wanting to switch off from it all. Thank you for saying that it's ok to let the war go in our minds and to prioritise our own pain and trauma first.
I must admit seeing some of the footage reminded me of my time.I did bosnia twice and Kosovo.again in Europe,reduced to tears through frustration that this is happening again
Same here mate! Your not alone
This, is probably one of the most amazing videos you have ever posted Nick. I am a Brit, living in Poland, and to give perspective, I am probably as close to danger where I live, as you are to me. That said, you are 100% spot on in your observation of the narrative. You and I can only control our own attitude and actions, nothing else. You and your family are amazing and totally inspiring. thank you x
Thanks Nick. Good sense as ever 👍. I stopped watching the news during Covid, when the media ignored whatever else was happening in the world… caffeine and sugar: that’s a harder addiction to break 😂😏
Just recently got hooked on this channel - really nice content.
As Ukrainian living through all this I would like that noone in peaceful and cultural world have ever experienced any bit of such horrors. Peaceful people just don't deserve it.
However, me and other Ukrainian people very appreciate any kind of support from the word. It is nice to understand that we are not alone.
As for the mental state, in any case the first thing you need do is try to be the most effective, efficient and concise. Hitting those extreme sides like being indifferent (apathy) and panic, may be equally harmful. But usually the cause is the same - being overwhelmed.
Yep, the best thing is at least to do something, do sports, fresh air, do you job or things that you do the best and/or like the most.
Top Notch Nick, well said and well timed. Just getting into some woodland and having a bimble or a brew is my go to.
Great comments form you Nick. I really appreciate that you are creating awareness reg our unhealthy habits of media consumption and whatnot could do to us. One point to add: I find the major challenge not so much in the practises throughout the day once I’m aware of my unhealthy ones. The challenge in my opinion is before that: esp when it comes to questions of survival or those we deem relevant to be that way (or get them fed in that way by the media to sell clicks) our brain acts based on system 1, the “auto, fast” brain. ( referring here to D Kahmemann) so a good practise of mindfulness is essential for me to even be aware when I slip into bad habits. I think your mentioning of gaining perspective serves a similar purpose. Learning this kind of self awareness keeps me sane even in critical situations
great video, i wish you and your family well this mothers day
It's a shame all these people getting so passionate about Ukraine but when it comes to our own country going to Hades and sold out by the very Parliament meant to protect us, it's greeted with at best apathy.
Bushcraft and camping in the wild get in touch with nature and the elements just take care all
I have been suffering from depression for 37 years someone tried to kill me butt i survived
But live in hell very day now butt
Haven't watched or listened to the news or read a newspaper in don't know how long, in my opinion they tell you what they want you to know, as I say that only my opinion
Great advise as always I agree focusing on a project and getting in the zone AWESOME really appreciate your honesty Nick Have a Blessed Day...🙏🤙👍
Wise words. Thank you 😊
I find watching steel forging to make amazing swords and knives works best for me to calm down. Watching how many times the steel is folded and forged is the best part.
My PTSD and me. Needed this about now. I’ll look again tomorrow.
Important information right here! Thank you!
Hello from British Columbia Canada
🇨🇦👍👋♥️ 🌧☂️
not very long ago in our history 🧠
Great vista,
I try to get out every day
Journal
Wear noise cancelling headphones
Paint/draw
Well said man. Keep up your great work!
I have a very inquisitive mind. I need to know what is happening in the world but, I know that it's not healthy to wallow in it.
Every day at around ten o'clock, I have what I refer to as the briefing. Almost like a morning meeting if you will.
I look at a couple of trusted websites, I find out what has happened and is likely to happen and that's it.
I'm well aware that "trusted" means different things to different people but, that's a decision you make for yourself.
I then go about my day taking care of all the things I need to take care of.
Hi Nick, all really great advice for anyone dealing with anxiety, whatever the reason. Something I would add, which I've only become aware of recently, is to be careful of empathy, especially emotional empathy (feeling others pain, as opposed to just understanding it). I know that sounds odd but too much does you no good, in the same way as too much media. It was always something which I struggled with so I had been making a concerted effort to develop my skills in this area; the thing was thought it was just making me more anxious and unhappy. Everywhere I looked I saw others suffering, whether it was online or people I know, even animals, and it would just become utterly overwhelming.
Then I read a book called The Problem With Empathy (can't remember the author of the top of my head) which explains that emotional empathy is not helpful, it tends to cause us to freeze in simulated misery. Whereas *compassion* is much more useful as it tends to spur action. Obviously this is an incredibly simplified description but I agree with the jist. Now I am very much more careful with how I deploy my empathic abilities.
Thanks for this! I can’t even imagine what PTSD feels like but I struggle with anxiety and depression. Your perspective on mental health and the outdoors has been SO great for me. I’ve been trying to force myself to ignore my instinct to crawl in a hole and instead get out into the woods and learn new skills. Your content has been a huge encouragement for that so…. THANKS! I appreciate your willingness to be transparent.
Thanks for the perspective.
Very well put nick as you say bad news is rammed down you throat repeatedly all day , I myself know that wars are terrible things and unfortunately it's worldwide I do as you suggest I head to the woodland with a good book and practice Bushcraft skills for me total relaxation I do wish these wars could end tomorrow but we'll have to wait and see to stop this killing of innocent women and children 🙏♠️
Great talk,TED. (That’s a reference to the TED Talks comment for those of you who don’t get my subtle obtuse humor). I self-edit my news intake so that I receive just enough to stay abreast of current events but not enough to beat my psyche down to a blithering pulp. It was the same over the last five years on the political news front.
Thumbs up from America, my friend. Keep helping us through the bad times and sharing the good times.
SDR from Northwest Virginia, USA.
Well said, thanks Nick.
Media or not, disaster or not, spending too much time doing nothing but letting my mind go hamsterwheeling isn't ever good for me. I'll feel anxious even when there's nothing to feel anxious about. Fatigued even (and especially) when I haven't gotten much done.
Intense physical exercise, and working through a list of things that I've been putting off that have been gently weighing on me in the background for weeks or months is an essential form of self-therapy to get out of my head. It forces me out of abstractions & makes me focus on things that are tangible & achievable & even if I don't do particularly well, I'll come off feeling like I've progressed in something.
Thank you for the great self care tips. The fear of how bad things might get does creep up on us.
I no longer give any value to msm. I have been a student of history. Knowing the nazi history and current actions in Ukraine. Seeing fake footage used again and again on the news I filter things out. I am a Christian and I love by there is no fear in Christ. I had a stroke last year and putting my energy into healing and luring to walk again. I seek first the things of God. Second I talk to my wife about the things I have found both stressful and the thing that have given me joy. Share learn and grow. Never feel embarrassed by your emotions God gave them to us. I’ve got into green craft as a relaxing task. It also helps me get some hand strength back. I was stuck in Bed for almost 9 months. In the Lord is my peace.
Amen, my brother in Christ.
My blood group is B+.
Say no more.👍🏾
Stay well, Nick.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 I mean ‘Be positive’, at all times…I can’t get stressed, by what is happening in The Ukraine. Tell me honestly.
If I get stressed about it, will it help anyone?
No.
Stay well.
Excellent! Thank you. Picking up the guitar now. Nature is always a great cure. I think if the internet was gone, we'd all be more connected and stable humans. Hope everyone has a beautiful day 🙂✌
Greath thoughts and video once again... its far too easy to focus on the bad things happening specially the ones we tend to think are closer to us (really nasty stuff happening in Africa every second and no word on it... because its far and different for most people and Ukrain is (as I ve heard ) "people like us" :( I don t check the news as often as I used to because it thrives on negativity... as you just said... focusing on the one thing we can control. us . Thank you.
Great pep talk Nick, you're reaching far and wide. You're a very inspirational bloke. Keep em coming!
Spot on it's like a kettle the pressure builds up an it's ok to just let it out like a kettle let's out Steam.
Emotions are like waves we have ups and downs.
Each day will be different take each one as it comes & be kind and respectful to each other 👍
Another great video Nick, some really good pointers in this, highlighting some basic techniques that most of us probably already know but brings it back to the forefront! Looking forward getting your book delivered this week!
Hi Nick! Could you please, make a video about how do you transform /or turn saline water into drinking water? I'm highly appreciate it. And I'm sure many of your viewers will benefit from it. Just a few alternative natural things, you think will be helpful. Thank you for this video and all the information you share with many people.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Thank You, thank you, thank you, Nick
Hi Nick, hang in there brother .👊!
Hope you and your family are doing great. Keep the videos coming bud. Stay safe and be well. Strength and Honor...From a mate across the pond 👍.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Anytime Nick. I hope the best for you and your family bud.
I stopped watching the news. Stopped reading comments/ watching political videos. I feel so much better.
Journalists love bad news. My life doesn't improve by hearing it.
Couldn’t agree more Nick.
Fortunately I don’t suffer from PTSD or much else. I’m a regular guy making way through life but we all have stress in life through one thing or another and the outdoors is simply the best reset. Simply making a fire and having a hot drink with family or friends is just unbelievably relaxing. I actually find your Chanel and others similar to be absolutely inspiring
THANK YOU
Thanks a lot for the reminder. I can certainly relate to a lot, and its always nice to get some insight into how other people deal with it. As always, a very good video and more importantly very helpful!
Nick, Great vid mate! I totally agree with everything you said. However, I see what's happening I hear what's happening and all I want to do is live a happy chill life. But, knowing this is happening and has been since the beginning of mankind, I still can't help wanting to go fight with and for an innocent, peaceful, non aggressive by nature country who are fighting themselves for their own existence. Maybe I'm wrong but that's my prerogative. I still say DEATH TO TYRANTS AND TRAITORS! DAMN THEM ALL TO HELL!
Anywho, on a lighter note hope all is well with you and the fam. Take care.
Great Video. Set me off crying again.
What's the purpose of life? - To help others and you're doing it.
A few years ago my daughter-in-law was in our living room, on the phone to her Babuschka in Awdewka (on the front just south of Bachmut), as a shell hit the tree outside the window of the flat.
The tree saved Babuschka's life. It was then I realised how in our connected world, it's almost impossible keep distance.
I go fishing, don't catch much, but to sit on the bank, looking at the water helps a lot.
My wife and friends help a Ukrainian community here.
One friend is russian, at first she asked "how can I face these people who are being attacked by my country?".
She is now accepted and loved by many, although some still object to her only speeking russian.
My thoughts are with all the common people on both sides, who are suffering this war.
Keep well.
I love the message here. I wont lie for the first 6 months ish Ukraine stressed the sh** out of me due to use of the `N` word. Also last year I split from my wife, staring at my 2nd divorce and all of our joint `friends` dropped me like a bad habit . Alone in a flat near London sobbing as The Boss (Her Majesty) had just passed away I considered some very dark things. One friend was there in spades and still is, a serving `Royal`. I`m starting to sort myself, I keep my mind busy by trying to learn a language (Welsh of all things 🙄) teaching myself the guitar and Im starting to look into Zen. I have cut all news media out of my life and all social media save Insta, where I follow who I want to hear from, uplifting positive people. My passion is wild camping in the Black mountains in Wales. I decompress sooo much there it`s unbelievable. The outdoors in any weather is a tonic beyond anything from a Dr. Love the channel. Stay strong 👍
Excellent Nick. Proper respect peace and love brother💙✌️Think I’ve even been frying the head of my therapist. Excellent video and very accurate bro. Wise man mate keep on growing your authentic ways pal. God bless🙏💯
Thanks a lot for this one, and your content in general! As a German, this entire Ukraine thing resonates with me for a different reason. I've got ancestors, who went to Ukraine, probably having been fed similar propaganda to what Russians are exposed to nowadays. Some of them, like my grand uncle, stayed there. He was buried in Ukrainian soil a long time ago, just the age of 21. He was certainly fighting for the wrong cause, but did that make him a bad person? I see all this talk about the "bad Russians" and wonder how many of them are stuck there, struggling with the wrong people for the wrong reasons. Of course, I feel with the Ukrainian people, who are occupied, just like our country was. But I also try not to fall for that "good vs bad" narrative. Not that long ago, we used to be the bad nazis. Now it's the bad Russians. I just hope that the Russian people will wake up and solve their real problems, so that both them and the Ukrainians won't have to suffer any more.
I have been thinking about this situation. I have seen a war propaganda poster for the British public here that tells us "German soldiers eat babies, its a fact"
The anti Russian propaganda we get now in western Europe is similar to the anti German propaganda of 80 years ago. When Governments and media do this to their own people, to focus them onto the enemy of the day it makes war possible. What a shame for the people of Ukraine that it has taken action from Russia to get the Ukraine government to talk to the rebel regions when they were supposed to do this in 2015, do you know about the Minsk Agreements?
@@utubeape well, I like eating babies, but they're pretty expensive these days. Seriously though, my point was about people dying on both sides. There is nothing good about that. We've lived in the unprecedented comfort of almost 80 consecutive years of peace in Europe. Because we stopped settling our differences militarily. It was simply not an option. Now, the Russian government is putting that option back on the table. We can't have that. Mr. Chamberlain tried to appease Hitler and we all know how that went. So I'm pleased to see the world is not making the same mistake again, though you might argue that we should have responded to the annexation of Crimea already, and more forcefully. But we need to keep in mind that it's the Russian people who ultimately carry their government, or drop them. We need to get off this good vs evil thing and enable the Russian people to make their own decision. That is to say, support the ones who oppose this war. Many Germans turned to the BBC'S world service in WWII to get a different story than the official Wochenschau narrative. We need to help the Ukrainians fight off the Russian forces, while at the same time we need to support the Russian opposition. At least, that's my five cents from a German point of view. Friends can turn into enemies and the other way around.
Totally agree fella! Try my best to avoid news. Not that I dont care, I absolutely do, but I need to keep myself above water. Key for me (as motivation been lost over last few years), is I ALWAYS have a bag packed ready to grab and go out. Day pack stuff with emergency food/- water etc. Even some little weights in there for fitness. Camping stuff out on display in my dining room next to it (obviously single haha!). Most of the times I've bailed on going out, has been because of the thought of packing and hunting stuff out. Sounds pathetic but the mind is a funny thing. Since i started having the bag ready, I've been out so much more. Heading out now to grab a whopping turkey tail mushroom I spotted last week. Cheers fella, great vid
Awesome and timely video. I try to unplug and make short term goals. Making a batch of coffee and quietly sipping on it the very early morning and taking time to enjoy the moment. That’s my reason to get up and start living again. Though sometimes the”old me” slips back into my headspace, making me hyper vigilant. Currently working with kids from the region and recognize some of these signs in them. I try to get them to unplug and just be kids again, laughing 😝 and being silly 🙃. They usually walk away with a smile 😊 on their faces and thank me for letting them be “ goofy” 🤪 kids. Cheers 🍻, take care and stay frosty.🌲🇨🇦🏕🇬🇧🌲
Thanks for that talk. It really resonated. So much good advice. And yeah, not eveyone with ptsd was in the armed forces. Thanks for the inclusive language.
Nick you speak words of wisdom just after watching this life gets put back into the right path top man 💪🏴👍🔥🥩🥓
Atta boy! Well said! Personally, my faith gives me perspective as well. Much like the top of that hill you're on, it helps me see a bigger picture and one with ultimate hope & purpose at the end.
Your words were truth and well suited to where we find ourselves today. Thank you for the excellent reminder! 👍🏻🇨🇦
100% RIGHT. Turn the blue screen off. You said Sleep was important, That's for sure. Many head trauma's my sleep is all messed up, then the stuff on the blue screen set's me off, Your right do some thing that put's you in the happy zone. I chop wood and garden.
Thank you for this. Realise I had fallen in to a rut and actually caught myself early. Been filling my days in the garden and finding little tasks to do. Had my parents visit and spent quality time with family. I have found exercise and making achievable measurable (SMART) goals. Thank you so much for this truly a topic we as veterans need to keep discussing amongst ourselves and with friends.
Lots of blessings to your family and you Nick and the rest of the world 🌎 sorry I haven’t been able to watch lately just trying to make good memories with my kids I haven’t been able to see for a 2 years my son mostly now that we are fully you know jabbed up 💉😂and thanks in going to shear your video’s with my son , and oh really you saw a crocodile 🐊 near the river didn’t know the UK had them you know the make a good pair of Jump boots 👢😂👍👌✌️🇺🇸
Hi Nick. I've just subscribed to your channel and I have to say, I can't get enough of it. Not only are your lessons, tips and advice well presented and I'm learning much, but I must also applaud you for your honesty when it comes to mental health. It's a tough subject especially for men, as a sufferer it's refreshing to hear a "blokey bloke" saying it's ok to cry.
As for my tips to avoid mental stress. I don't watch TV, I don't read newspapers, I limit my access to social media. And the phone goes away a couple of hours before bed, preferably into another room.
Props for putting this together and for being very honest and open. When I've been asked about PTSD and more importantly the treatment I had, I make it very clear that the 8 months of counselling sessions with a CPN allowed me to offload in a controlled environment, without judgement and absolute confidentiality, but that the outcome wasn't a 'cure' but a desensitisation. It was a mechanism to at least in part process what I'd been through and it provided me with some ways to manage PTSD. To quote the late great Robin Williams talking about giving up alcohol, 'I'm the same asshole, I just have fewer dents in my car'.
My tv broke a year or two ago (I've actually forgotten how long it's been) and I didn't replace it, so my exposure to the news has been far less than it would have been and I think that has helped significantly with what is going on right now. I've certainly read posts or comments from fellow veterans and colleagues from the Army that have been triggered, and they've taken themselves off social media, or deliberately taken themselves away for a trip away from the noise.
Echoing other comments, thanks for sharing this.
Great video. When I treat anyone (ranging from Special Operators and Emergency Services Personnel all the way through to brave single-mums on welfare) suffering PTSD or anxiety or any kind I remind them , as you have also suggested, that we cannot control everything outside of ourselves, but we can work towards control of our own thoughts and actions. It takes practice, but it's so worthwhile. Focussing on the 5 ft in front of you is a great start - it bring the overwhelm of the whole world into a much smaller and manageable size. And ironically, the opposite - when you take yourself away onto nature, with its expansive vistas, allows you to see just how huge and amazing the natural world is. In that escape you can calm your mind down and reset your stress levels - better thoughts and solutions come from a calmer mind too. Love the Videos - keep up the great work. Such an important message in this troubling time.
I love all your videos, and always give them the old "thumbs up".
I would just like to say that I would give this one a thousand "likes", if possible.
Keep up the good work!
I've taken 24 hrs to think about this video before adding a comment.. . You're so right. I was watching youtube guff about various world events and decided to block all the channels I'd never heard of before. Social media pervades, we should process our own thoughts first.
I haven't had a TV for over 12 years. It's one of the best decisions I've ever made 👍
Wise words Nick, I only did one tour of FRY Vitez 93 and having this in my face 24/7 has been no good at all. No Good. Listening to the amount off loss and trauma has been traumatic and distracting as well as emotionally debillitating. Grounding is an important thing, sometimes we forget how much so even after any type of therapy we can still get lost.
Hi Nick. I'm fortunate. I moved to Torquay 25 years ago and when I get stressed, that distant horizon is just 15 minutes away. That's why i took up sea fishing. I like to lure fish. Somehow, i can be aware of what the lure is doing and be switched off at the same time. It helps me sort my head out and put things into perspective. After watching this video, I have realised, I get up, get a coffee and look at my phone to catch up with the world. Time for a change. Time to start the day with a book instead of looking at my phone. Wish me luck.
I stop watching news I don't see things which I cannot control of. I am focusing on my inner being inner happiness. Now I am studying Herbal plants. Thank you brother It's good speech.
Who ever still watching MSM really need a reality check! Turn it off and go live your life!! Best thing I did over 10 years ago... stopped watching TV 🤜🏻🤛🏻
When I wake up, I get a cup of tea, look out at the garden, then sit down and do some meditation (box breathing) for a few minutes...I find it helps "ground" me for the day. In terms of the injustices in the world, I feel we are often just passive observers (scrolling through the internet) ..much better if we became active..donated some money, joined a community organisation, etc.. cliche, but be part of the change we want to see in the world.
Breath work. Lofty Wiseman the sas fella talks about it and it works. Breathe in through nose for 5 seconds. Hold breath for 5 seconds. Then out through mouth for 5 seconds. It's great at reducing anger, rage, stress and emotional upset. It can also sort out irregular heart rhythms, I speak from personal experience on this. Fresh air, nature and being active in mind and body helps too. This is indeed an evil world full of evil people so everything we can do to fight it helps. Turn off the tv and never turn back on. Never buy news papers, full of b.s. and utter mind controlled lies and nonesense. Use the internet to learn..........then switch it off.
I can’t watch the news because of what’s happening at the moment, because it’s too distressing. It’s not because I don’t care, I just find it too much.
I couldn’t watch the news when the constant lockdowns/Covid news was on because it was really getting to me, and social media didn’t/doesn’t help.
I had to go out and try to relax my mind yesterday because I was feeling I was on ghe edge, so went to the New Forest, which I find helps.
Great tips Nick, thanks.
Thats amazing, I'm lucky to have not seen or experienced many of the things your subscribers have but I do get anxious and the way you present the coping strategies and talk about it is really helpful. Thanks.
Brilliant insights! I've been getting into Bushcraft and it's such a great way to get exercise and keep mentally active. If I goto bed with stress on my mind.. I wake up even more stressed and it totally ruins my whole day, but after a day in the woods building whatever (I want to get into carving more) I get home with a sense of pride and am completely knackered. All I think about is what I want to achieve next .. but when I'm stuck at home I get frustrated, all my problems know where to find me :( Thanks for the wise words! Very deep.
Hi Nick great advice, like to cut up small branches for my Bush box with the thicker stuff like to make tent pegs. I try not to watch the news I don't buy newspapers anymore. But you can't totally shield yourself from it so I go and do something I enjoy
We're probably the same age but I'm saying thankyou SIR for a reality check. Thankyou for trying to do ur part to snap people out of this collage of emergency and terror and grief. Be well sir.
Thank you Nick, that really helped. I'm avoiding the news, never ending analysis, opinions etc etc and find myself feeling guilty for not watching, for not trying to share the pain these people are going through. As you say, these events trigger PTSD and I know this and I will weight train and walk every day to get the endorphins I need to feel better, although I do wonder if my coping method may be a punishment as much as a cure?
I am a Para Reg veteran from Operation Banner and Op Telic thank you and thank you for all the other comments. This stuff really does what it says on the label. 👍👍👍
I’ve just seen this video. The Ukraine situation has certainly knocked the scab off my PTSD. I found myself wanting to actually go and volunteer. This feeling was as ridiculous as it was real. I managed to find a project to fill my time and head! Great video.
No I'm not stressed by what's happening in Ukraine 😂 I stopped watching liberal mainstream propaganda news ages ago. Bad for your mental health in the least.
I wasn't getting any vids that you posted latley I'm so so glad you covered this topic and that l caught it. Thank You Nick! It's funny I'm such a chicken l avoid them clicks if it's got a warning, it's warning for a reason. It's hard to unsee what's been seen so I'm avoiding the news lately.
Good advice. In the 1990's I became fixated on watching coverage on television of the wars in Croatia, and then Bosnia. Atrocity followed atrocity, and I became angry and then depressed because I thought that someone should do something to stop the conflict. In the end, as you have said, I realized that I personally could do nothing to influence these terrible events for the better. My solution was to stop watching these conflicts on television, and to follow their progress in only very general terms.
A timely, carefully phrased set of thoughts that are apposite, for us and many others we suspect. You have the happy ability to communicate important concepts in straightforward terms, and for this, we are very grateful to you, your family and business through the channel. Top job. We're lucky in that the last week of good weather saw us in a rural environment without mobile or TV, and kept away from the corrosive 24hr News cycle. Birdsong prevailed in our ears for the whole week, and it was a great mental reset. Keep up what you do, and thanks from us.
Wow, re-reading this a moment ago makes me want to run away from the corporate cr*p that I experienced at work; I'm sorry if it reads that way to your viewers, but I hope that you appreciate our support.
You are an inspiration in such a subtle way. Out yesterday in the woods and everything focused. Thanks Nick
Hi, just watched your video and for me, i have never followed or watched the news, nor even read a news paper tbh, i dont believe half of whats said or wrote so, only certain things will intrege me. Im dyslexic and suffer with ptsd and anxiety too so certain things i just block out. Hard to do sometimes when as u say its on every channel or post on media platforms. I look for things to keep me occupied, hobbies etc n that helps me alot. Anyway, enough speil, lol, love your videos, very educational.
Thank you for making this video. I've heard similar things said before but this was far more relevant to me. Getting stressed about the Ukraine situ is something I've not been kind to myself over. Getting stressed out interspersed with thoughts and feelings of "buck your ideas up ya pussy, you're not in the shit, they are..." and really beat myself up about it. You just reiterated all the things I needed to tell myself. That it's not my fault, and that our brains are like this for a reason. That and the fact I have an underlying mental condition. Thank you for taking the time to do this. The journal is a good idea I may just start one. Take care. C.
Reading up and trying to practice situational awareness in the hope that I would carry myself better as I go thro daily activities. Fascinating topic, definitely a life skill. The challenge is to actually have the wherewithal to click it in when you go into a store for example. So easy, at least for me, to be the uncontrolled air head which has avoidable stressful consequences
Thanks nick, I came to this some years back. Its ouside your circle of controle. You get more then the detail you need from other people. I stoped waching the news about ten years ago on a regular basis. I will wacht news only when I seek ik out to get particular information.
What it seems to me is that the news is grown more and more populist in the past 20 years. Le order of news items is no longer based on the same ranking of importance (atleast here in the Netherlands as well as in other countries) popular and even pop culture items often come before news of importance.
Ps. Yes, carving is like meditation, I just love carving spoons!
I can't help feeling bad that my daily struggle is to find cheap diesel or choose something for dinner.
Meanwhile there are some horrific war crimes being committed in Europe. This stuff is pretty close to us.
Thanks for this video though.
Nailed it.
I have books to read and incense to burn, but for some reason I get up every morning and instantly engage in doom-scrolling.
Thank you for that insight.
We all have the option to chose what we see, what we hear, the information we chase. The internet, instant information, instant gratification lead us down that rabbit hole and we get drawn into what is going on. Granby, the Gulf War, was the first conflict that effectively became the first television war and, in being so, blurred the line's between reality and the movies. People started to lose the ability to differentiate between fiction and reality, and, in the process, we started to lose a part of our humanity. No-one for one instant, think that I am in any way trying to detract from the loss and suffering going on in the Ukraine, my thought's and prayer's are with them daily, but how much of that suffering we as individuals chose to expose ourselves to is entirely up to us. We all have the choice to either watch what mainstream media is broadcasting or, as you say, get out, detach ourselves from the situation and ground ourselves. It does not matter if, like yourself, you live in the countryside, or you live in a city, pretty much everyone has a park or some open space nearby, to which they can retreat, stop, and breathe. Focus on what surrounds you, center yourself, and remember, you are in control. SVPPB
Thank you Nick for this video mate, it’s just what I needed to hear buddy. 👍🏻👍🏻 stay safe mukker atb Pete
Spot on. Mindfulness is the key. You're right about not fighting the negatives. Allow them to flow. Its so easy to get swamped down with the media. It was so clear how saturated we got with Covid news now it's been almost entirely replaced with the same level of saturation with Ukraine. Both are important but it just shows the control the media has in how much we receive.
Some fantastic advice! I've recently taken up Trumpet. Playing long tones in my wood is almost like zen yoga or something.
Thanks Nick for the boot up the bum. When I found myself crying in a Teams meeting at work the other day I knew I had to do something, am off work at the moment. I have decided to learn morse code, I have always wanted to do but have never got very far so now I have some time that I can use to focus on me I will. I am going to try the journaling. Thanks again Nick, take care.
Regarding the wheat production in Ukraine, don't worry about it - I have been listening to some Russian soldiers complaining that they are operationally hamstrung because they have been told to stay out of the fields because it is planting season!
You describe some of the reasons I started bushcrafting. I had a stressful job in banking and came across a man who said when is the last time I watched the clouds and enjoyed God's creation. He was right and I remember the first time I went back into the woods for over thirty years and stopped and just looked around. I felt silly at first, but soon found it was where I should be.