Mayor Eric Adams recently disclosed that he has not been keeping up with the news for the past four weeks, citing the need to improve his mental health. He stated that not consuming news has helped him sleep better and feel more at ease. Adams compared the negative effects of consuming news to physical obesity and mentioned that staying away from news has had a positive impact on his well-being in light of recent challenges he has faced, such as accusations of being in cahoots with former president Trump and a federal corruption case.
Adams’ revelation of his news diet came after being asked about the impact of Andrew Cuomo’s entry into the Democratic mayoral primary race. Cuomo’s candidacy has reportedly caused Adams to lose support from some of his previous backers, including the husband of Brooklyn Democratic chairwoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn. When questioned about Cuomo, Adams revealed that he is not fazed by him because he has opted to not read newspapers or listen to the news. Instead, he relies on his staff to provide him with the necessary information.
The mayor’s decision to abstain from mainstream news sources is not new, as he had previously followed a vegan diet to address health concerns. Although Adams admitted that his vegan diet is imperfect and includes fish, he believes that this dietary change helped to save his vision and life from diabetes. By making these lifestyle adjustments, Adams has actively explored different strategies to improve his physical and mental well-being. As someone in a high-stress leadership role, taking steps to prioritize his health has become a priority.
Adams’ approach to reducing news consumption and focusing on his well-being could be a reflection of a larger trend among leaders to take breaks from the constant barrage of information. In a world where news and social media are omnipresent, more individuals are recognizing the importance of mental health and setting boundaries for consumption. By acknowledging the negative impact of consuming too much news, Adams is setting an example for others in leadership positions to prioritize their own mental health.
The mayor’s decision not to engage with news coverage could potentially affect his ability to stay informed about important issues and events. By delegating the responsibility of monitoring the news to his staff, Adams may miss crucial information that could impact his decisions and governance. However, Adams seems willing to accept this trade-off for the benefits he perceives from avoiding exposure to negative press and criticism.
In conclusion, Mayor Eric Adams has chosen to take a break from consuming news to prioritize his mental health and well-being. By staying away from news for the past four weeks, Adams believes he has achieved a greater sense of ease and improved sleep. While this decision may have implications for his ability to stay informed, Adams is committed to focusing on his health in the face of significant challenges and scrutiny. By sharing his experiences with news consumption and mental health, Adams sets an example for others in leadership positions to take care of themselves amidst a demanding environment.
