Since the spread of COVID-19 began, it seems as if headlines are filled with an overload of bad news, which can be quite overwhelming. Digesting the news is an important part of being an informed citizen, but how do we strike a healthy balance between being informed and not inundating ourselves with countless upsetting facts?

In response to this question, I created a list of ways that I digest the news. I’m still working on striking the perfect balance. Trust me, I am nowhere near the end of my search. But I figured some of these news sites could be useful to you. 

1. NowThis News

I am obsessed with this news site. While they do have an online website, I find their social media platform to be super informative. On their Instagram, they post at least one news video a day. These videos are easy to follow, two minutes max and give a complete rundown of important news stories. The NowThis News Instagram also has subsections that focus on politics, environment, entertainment and many other categories. 

2. Podcasts galore (Up First by NPR, The Daily by The New York Times, etc) 

Sometimes, it’s hard to read the news, especially during this time when we are on our screens all day. Podcasts are a super easy way to digest information, and you can listen to them while you walk, shower, or even before bed! Up First gives a really comprehensive look at the day’s news — usually in 13 minutes. The Daily by The New York Times’ highlights the reporting of the day with interviews of journalists and guest speakers from the New York Times. Check ’em out — or if you’re needing a little news break, keep your eyes open for Keep It, a pop-culture podcast that “discusses the latest ways pop culture and entertainment are intersecting with politics and society.” 

3.  Snapchat Stories 

On the Snapchat discover page, lots of news sites have quick, digestible stories that are easy to follow and give a quick recap of important events. For example, The Washington Post has quick stories of the day that take about two minutes to watch. The infographics and visuals make the stories easy to follow and understand. Today, I read an article that explained how the New Deal would not be workable today — informative! 

4. Some Good News 

With everything going on, good news seems a little sparse. Yet, this news site helps bring some smiles and laughter to my day. John Krasinski’s Some Good News is fun, entertaining and wholesome. With his A-lister status, he is able to bring amazing memories to normal people (like me) while we are social distancing. Whether it’s a virtual prom or a serenade from the Hamilton cast, he is working to make quarantine more bearable. 

I know what you’re thinking: reading the news can be overwhelming, difficult and sometimes a bit boring. But, the sites listed above are a streamlined way to get the coverage you need during these difficult times. Use all these resources, or none at all — but remember to take time for yourself, as well.