When Communicating Online, PICK Your Words

Contributor(s): Kit Breshears
Person communicating by typing on computer

It's now been nearly two years since the Covid-19 pandemic began, and tensions for many of us have reached an apex. We’re still experiencing stress, grief, loss, fear, anxiety, rage, and hopelessness. Many have lost their jobs and are terrified about their financial futures, while others have discovered that working and living in the same space 24 hours a day might not be optimal for their wellbeing. We’re engaging defense mechanisms, suffering from depression, and feeling emotionally and physically exhausted.

Lashing out at one another – in both workplace settings and in personal settings via social media – has become more commonplace. But it doesn’t have to be so. During times of stress, focusing on our own wellbeing – and by extension, the wellbeing of others – can be incredibly helpful.

As you feel frustrated by communications that may trigger you in some way, take a breath before responding, and PICK your words.

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