I think people are just nervous and some may be acting out. Things will calm down as this thing passes.

That said, if you need a mental health break, go for it. I’ve done it before and it does help.

back soon.

Take care.

Wife tells me I need to take a break from the interwebs, too, but I think it's just because I keep interrupting her Hallmark and Lifetime viewing with news updates.

But do whats best for you.

and take care of yourself, practice mindfulness. Come back when you are ready.

I start out each day reading the Latest Breaking News, then GD, then end by reading the DU Lounge to pick up my spirits. Some days I cut short the other first two and just read the Lounge.

We'll miss you, so if you do go, come back as soon as you feel able.

reading, but I'm sorry it upset you this much.

BTW, the only thing keeping me sane is my DOG! May you find something that comforts you as much.

that's why I only have around 3,000 posts. And each time I come back on, the whole vibe of the place seems to have changed. I still recognize some names from the good old days, but the quality posts and civility just aren't there anymore. When this place first came into existence it was freaking amazing. It was so much fun to try & figure out who some of the famous posters were, there was some serious quality to a lot of the OP's, we got a lot of inside information from industry heads and government officials, and the wit, OMG - I'd spit my coffee out laughing on a regular basis. Then the Russian trolls infiltrated, Bernie Bros tried their best to take over the site, and it was total bedlam.

Funny, but each time I take a break they get longer and longer. If I wasn't such an information hog, I'd probably drop off again. When good info starts to dry up, I'll likely pop off again.

It can be very draining to empaths too. If you're sensitive, it's difficult, but if you're even more vulnerable, it can be damaging. I really have a hard time tamping down my emotions when I'm active. I cry, I get depressed, I laugh, I shout for joy - sometimes all in an hour. It's just too much of a roller coaster at times. And the relief when I say goodbye for a spell is magnificent.

Enjoy your break - I'll be joining you soon.

I just never announced it..

Take your break and come back to us refreshed.