When its time to drop your social media / viewing of a website because of something triggering. 

I have seen recently that there is a lot talk about self diagnosis and while we all have our opinions I just wanted spread some advice that I've been using in recent years. 

I personally tend to be impulsive online with what I say to people. While this is normally in messages... there have been times in posts where I've said something that I didn't want to say.  The talk of  self diagnosis makes me feel... well it depends. 

I come with this advice from a perspective of "oh but I don't have many/any IRL friends so I can't cut myself off"  andddddddd that I really need to listen to this myself!

My guidance is the following: 

1 - Assess the accounts / forums you follow. If there's a topic that seems triggering take a break, close it down and try not to read/look at it until you know you can feel okay. In cases where you feel you won't have times of okayness, block/unfollow them.

2- Avoid the news - but look sometimes. I feel that it's good to know what's going on - but too much can be an issue.  

3 - When you say something impulsive online (in my case because of dissociation) walk away from what happened while taking accountability. Sure you might feel emotional but now you have time to do something nice. It is good to say sorry  when you know you are grounded.  

4 - Take a break in the way that you feel most comfortable with, if that involves something online that's  valid. You don't NEED to take all online assess - fact is, only you know what is best for you.  

5 - Be kind, be honest. Not just with people online when replying/posting but to youself.