Feeling Fear From the Release of The Epstein Files?

When the recent Epstein file releases began circulating, many people noticed a shift in their mood, sleep, or sense of safety. As a therapist, I’ve been having more conversations about how exposure to stories of abuse and exploitation can land in the body long before we consciously process them.

In my interview with Cosmopolitan, I shared this reminder:

“I would encourage readers to be aware of their personal history and the effect it currently has on them before reading,” I said. “Do you have a history of sexual abuse or betrayal trauma? What tends to happen in your body when you encounter stories of sexual violence? Are you choosing to read this from a grounded and intentional place or because you feel pressured to?”

This isn’t about avoiding the news. It’s about approaching it with awareness. Our nervous systems are shaped by our experiences, and certain content can activate old wounds in ways that feel immediate and intense. Taking a moment to check in with yourself before engaging can make the difference between staying informed and becoming overwhelmed.

If you’d like to explore this further, head to the full Cosmopolitan article.