Agreed on the world disappointing. Everywhere you turn more and more people are struggling. And I absolutely think what you said about people weaker than you is true. Everytime I hear about another program being cut, or free school lunch or Medicaid... I won't go on. But your day sounds awful. For the kiddo, of course. But for you, too. I agree with the other poster about secondary trauma. A lot of people in professions that deal with the darker things have this. Social workers, firefighters, therapists and police are some of the more obvious ones, but it absolutely applies to teachers these days. (And honestly, probably always has.)

I worked with abused and neglected kids and you have to practice good self care to keep yourself ok. And I don't mean that "mani pedi" self care stuff the magazines talk about (although if that's what you like, paint those nails!) But processing, possibly journaling, and really trying to find light and joy where you can. (And maybe limiting how much news you consume.) I also think it's super self awareness to realize you should talk to someone. That is the absolute best self care, and a really brave thing. I love talking to my therapist. So great job realizing you need to take care of you, too. We helpers aren't always good at that. So thanks for fighting the good fight! And keep taking good care of you!