Political anxiety disorder” or “societal anxiety disorder” isn’t a formal term, but in my office, I’m seeing enough of it to think it may need its own category. Never in my career as a therapist have I seen so many individuals with stress and chronic worries about society. Not from their own lives, but from turning on the nightly news.
There has been a change in the last few years during this administration. Prior to the last election, thing seemed a bit more peaceful, or a least a bit more veiled. We may not have agreed with friends and family members on their political sentiments, but we kept it quiet. Now the internet is flooded with shouts of “snowflake!” and “libtard!” and we are convinced that those do not share our political views just MUST be mentally handicapped in some way.
Both sides politically are falling prey to a rage and vitriol, and us in society have somehow taken those onto ourselves, and let those sentiments bleed into those around us. Oh, and did I mention that EVERYONE now seems to be an expert on climate change, international affairs, and more? (If you want that explanation, look no further than the Dunning Kruger Effect!)
It’s a loss of control we all feel, as some of us fret wondering “what’s next!?” as the news preaches one political catastrophic event after another. Many are losing sleep worrying what news they will wake to.
So how, just how do we survive with no end in sight?
Know you are not alone!
We all are feeling the fear and powerlessness! It feels all very unstable and dangerous at times, and even more so for individuals of minority populations! Let’s acknowledge this stress, and then work on managing the stress!
Go do something about it!
Empower yourself to take change into your own hands! If you ever thought of running for office, now is the time! Or maybe it’s just supporting out and canvassing for a candidate you believe in. It doesn’t even have to be that large! Choose to donate a few dollars a week to a non profit you support. When we feel like we have some power and control, it gives us feelings of relief, which can bring purpose and new meaning to our lives. Its helpful to focus on what we CAN control, and the daily positive impact we can make in our society.
Put good into the world
Have you ever had someone make your day by paying for your coffee or opening a door? Challenge yourself to put kindness into your own life, and the lives of others.
Step away from the news
It sounds obvious to step away from the TV and notifications on your phone, but its rarely practiced. It’s hard to ignore the news when DAILY the media dramatizes every story to make it sound like the world is ending. The drama is addictive, and taking a break from it can be hard.
You may not be able to stop cold turkey, but consider limiting your exposure! Set limits on how long and when you will indulge in surrounding yourself with media
Take care of YOU
Its so hard to prioritize ourselves first! So often we have appointments and meetings for kids, parents, business meetings, and we forget to take time to ourselves! SELF care needs to be a priority (stand by for the next installment – “Self care is more than just a bubble bath!”
Wilmington Mental Wellness 