The news cycle feels like ragebait these days. We've seen enough.

It's okay to step back from the headlines in the final weeks before the midterms. Here's what to do with that energy instead.

I know I'm not the only one who's been sick to my stomach from the news lately. The Cornell gang rape case has been all over our timelines, with more upsetting details unfolding every day. Then the president said he "feels badly" for the accused rapists and worries they won't get a fair shake in court. Days later, he suggested that Iran bombing LA or San Diego would be a small price to pay for winning the war.

Enraged and disgusted is an understatement.

I would say leave some material for The Onion, but The Onion is supposed to be a joke. This shit isn't funny.

And unfortunately, upsetting news is not likely to let up before the midterms. Political wonks call it the "October Surprise": a major story that breaks in the final weeks before a contentious election, just in time to sway votes.

This year, Trump will probably continue his narrative about the election process being rigged, so he can discredit the results before a single ballot has been counted.

None of that should surprise us. We've known who Trump is for years. Remember the 2016 October Surprise? It was the "grab them by the p****" tape that leaked. Now, 10 years later, I don't need more info. And neither do you.

If the news cycle is making you sick, give yourself some grace and step back.

Normally, I'd say to stay informed because disengaging is exactly what the people in power are counting on. They want us to be exhausted and disillusioned, so we'll stay uninvolved.

But if you're reading this, you already know what's at stake. So I have a challenge for you. Instead of doomscrolling, try this:

We're all in group chats: family, friends, coworkers, run club, you name it. Start a chain where everyone shares their "I voted" sticker. Don't wait until Election Day, either. Start the conversation now: Is everyone registered? Voting early or on the day? Does anyone need a ride?

If someone in the chat goes quiet, reach out to them directly. And if anyone isn't sure they're registered, send them to vote.org to check. Deadlines are coming up fast.

This election is too important for any of us to sit out.

If you end up trying this, leave a comment or shoot me a DM and let me know how it went!

Welp, let me log off before I start cussin' about that man. Until next time, please scroll responsibly!