I am depressed. News seems negative: political divisiveness, social media spreading misinformation, intense wildfires and tornadoes, stubborn inflation which keeps grocery prices high and increases homelessness, low K-12 test scores and alarming increases in mental health problems like depression, drugs and suicide. Something is wrong with society and I'm part of this malaise.

These facts are information over which we have no control; however, we can control our reaction to this information. Why not respond in a proactive manner in small, personally meaningful ways? Let's learn the views of election contenders on national, state and local levels. And vote. In social media, let's criticize positively, appreciating others' talents.

We can respect the environment by gathering litter or joining neighborhood groups picking weeds and planting non-invasives. Let's support progressive innovations in education, encouraging our children and grandchildren to participate in athletic and musical activities, which we can then enthusiastically attend. Why not limit credit card purchases, not to what we want, but what we need and join volunteers in nonprofit organizations like New London’s Community Meal Center, serving others in need of food, clothing and shelter?

Finally, return to nature by birdwatching or hiking trails to help reduce mental stress and achieve a sense of inner peace. Let's transcend this lack of well-being by committing ourselves to community action.

Tim Evers

Mystic