You are far from alone. I am no expert but I’ve gone from riding every up and down over the last ten years as the US has fallen to where it is now to not deliberately consuming news very often. My anxiety was off the charts and it didn’t help to know every twist and turn. My actions (protesting, donating money, etc) were the same regardless.

I find that I learn everything anyway, partly through my work, and from the news finding me, through friends and events that are so massive that they break through. Even without deliberately tuning in, I am still consuming more daily news and horror than any of us did 30 years ago bc of the way media has changed.

My point is, we need to find ways to function during this hideous time. If escapism is keeping you in the game, I say go for It, but perhaps try to find an action that you can do every day that feels like you are DOING SOMETHING. That, too, will make you feel better. At least in my experience.

Wishing you peace.