The current political climate may feel divisive, stressful, and exhausting. With constant news updates, social media debates, and differing opinions among family and friends, it’s easy to feel mentally and emotionally drained. Prioritizing your mental health while staying informed and engaged is essential. In this blog, we go through seven tips to help maintain your well-being.
1 – Set a Timer on Doom Scrolling
Staying informed is important, but too much exposure to negative news can do more harm than good. Doom scrolling, the habit of endlessly consuming distressing news, can increase anxiety and feelings of helplessness. To prevent this, set a time limit on how much news you consume daily. Use apps that track screen time or set a timer when scrolling through social media. Read or view news from reliable sources and take intentional breaks from the news to give your mind a rest.
2 – Approach Political Conversations with Curiosity
Political discussions can quickly become heated, especially in today’s divisive climate. Instead of engaging with the intent to argue, approach conversations with genuine curiosity. Listen to people with different viewpoints and try to understand their reasoning. This doesn’t mean you have to agree with them, but considering another perspective can promote healthier discussions and reduce stress. When we listen instead of reacting, we contribute to a more open dialogue.
3 – You Don’t Need to Defend Your Political Views
While engaging in political discussions is valuable, it’s important to know when to step away. Constantly defending your political beliefs can be exhausting. Instead of feeling pressured to argue every time a topic arises that you disagree with, recognize when a conversation is no longer productive. It’s okay to say, “I respect your opinion, but I disagree, and I’d prefer to talk about something else.” Setting boundaries preserves your emotional wellbeing.
4 – Make Time to Meaningfully Connect with Likeminded People
Finding a supportive community is important for mental health. Engage with people who share your values by volunteering, joining a book club, or participating in community events. Connecting with like-minded individuals offers comfort and reminds you that you’re not alone. Supporting causes you care about provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
5 – Find Areas of Connection
While political differences feel overwhelming, focusing on common ground helps to bridge the gap between us. Whether it’s shared hobbies, family values, or a love for your local community, finding areas of connection with those who have different political views reduces tension. Recognizing shared humanity fosters understanding and creates a less isolating experience.
6 – Let It Out
Bottling up emotions leads to stress and frustration. Instead of keeping your feelings in, talk to trusted friends or family members about your feelings. Expressing your concerns, fears, or frustrations in a safe environment provides relief. Writing in a journal or engaging in creative outlets like art or music can also help process emotions.
7 – Talk to Someone
If the political climate is significantly impacting your mental health, seeking professional support can be beneficial. The trusted therapists at Lotus Psychology Group can help you develop coping strategies and offer a safe space to discuss your concerns. By taking intentional steps to protect your mental health, you can stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed. To get started working with the Lotus Psychology Group team, call (248) 957-8973, email info@lotuspsychgroup.com, or complete our online form.