Coping with Politically
Induced Stress
By Lynn Schlossberger, LPC
Perhaps you’ve seen a cartoon by David Sipress that’s been circulating on social media. Two stressed people are walking down a city street, and one says to the other, “My desire to be well informed is currently at odds with my desire to remain sane”. Do you relate?
If so, you have a lot of company. 77% of Americans tell researchers that politics is a source of significant stress in their lives, and constant exposure to the news creates an environment of constant unease. The American Psychological Association has published findings that increasingly, people perceive political discussion as threatening, and feel powerless. Fear motivates us to engage in “doomscrolling” to monitor disturbing news. Suicidal ideation is up 5% this year. Welcome to Mental Health Awareness Month.
Political anxiety is different from Generalized Anxiety Disorder; it disrupts social cohesion, when political opponents are seen as intentionally threatening our wellbeing, and our confidence in the protections of the social order is faltering. It is different because political influencers deliberately trigger fear in their messaging, to cultivate emotional decision making. Generalized Anxiety responds well to self soothing behaviors. Political anxiety challenges our belief that the world is a safe place, and that opponents share our moral convictions. Trust is damaged. Influencers are suspect. Non-allies are demonized.
If we were talking about some other trigger of anxiety, like germs or interstate traffic, we would think about reducing our exposure, to mitigate our symptoms. But politics is part of the ocean in which we swim; we can avoid thinking about it, but disengagement comes at a cost. Loss of confidence in our ability to make things better is a recipe for depression. The challenge, then: how much stress can you tolerate, in the meantime?
When we feel stressed about the politically toxic environment, we often feel isolated. One helpful response is to focus on what you can control. Find a group that supports your convictions. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Take a small positive step. Find a supportive colleague, or a neighbor with whom you can find common cause. Drink coffee together. Know that your convictions matter, and being in community amplifies your voice.
Yes, do manage your exposure to political news. It’s ok to take a break and watch Food Network or cat videos. Be judicious. What kind of movies support your vulnerable self right now? Persistent anger is exhausting. Engagement in real world chaos doesn’t have to be all or nothing. There is a time for distraction and a time for engagement. Rinse. Repeat.
Be aware of untested thoughts that accompany political anxiety. Worst case scenarios are possible, but not inevitable. Test your anxious assumptions.
Cultivating empathy is critical, if trust is to be restored, and with it, a sense that the world is a hospitable place. When an influencer derides empathy, their motivations become suspect. Set good boundaries with people who use provocative language to express their views, and let them know when the boundaries have been violated. Remove yourself. Prioritize finding common humanity, and willingness to listen, so as to not miss an opportunity to cultivate empathy. We can disagree vehemently and respectfully. We can judge a viewpoint as dangerous or unwise, without judging the person holding it. We can be productively angry with a political faction, and notice moments of unexpected grace. We can find our voice, and cultivate our peace.
In times of great stress, we need clear vision, and we need one another. Namaste.
Lynn Schlossberger LPC