Exploring the Impact of Political Climate on Mental Health: Wellness Tools and Strategies

Within the last 10 days alone, I have met with several clients who have expressed a myriad of feelings, thoughts, concerns, and needs regarding new legislation that will directly and/or indirectly affect their sense of safety, wellness, security, and community. Many have shared significant empathy and compassion for people who are at risk of substantial loss, and some have expressed motivation to reflect on how their privilege contrasts with some of their fellow mankind. My hope is that this article will serve as a tool for increasing reflection, awareness, and intentionality within each reader. 

Possible implications of exposure to/experiencing political changes that feel oppressive can include, but are not limited to:

• Increased symptoms of anxiety and/or depression

• Prolonged exposure/connection to direct/vicarious harm/oppression can contribute to the development of PTSD-related symptoms.

• Activation of Interpersonal/Community Support Systems/Safe Spaces for processing and authentic expressions/concerns

• Increase in advocacy and activism for fairer human rights

• Increase in self-awareness/self-reflection for individuals, groups, families, communities, etc.

• Sense of helplessness/despair/anger/rage/fear/confusion/disillusionment/isolation 

• Increase in stress/trauma-related health challenges. 

• Sociopolitical, disenfranchised, insoluble grief regarding loss of sense of safety/security/community/relationships/status

Wellness tools for navigating experiences/exposure to oppression:

• Find/create safe spaces for processing/release/moral support

• Engage in self-reflection on your ethical footprint as part of the human experience

• Finding a balance between staying informed and “coming up for air”/taking a break from social/news media and heavy conversations as needed.

• Be intentional with setting boundaries regarding when/where/how/with whom you engage in dialogue regarding some issues. 

• Connect with individuals who aim to promote causes that align with your morals and values.

• Tap into your faith/spirituality

• Consider writing/emailing local legislators regarding your concerns about policies/laws

• Practice mindfulness and self-compassion to re-center yourself and honor your needs

• Consider participating in therapy or additional mental/emotional support.

• Maintain your overall health by attending maintenance and necessary doctor appointments; stress can have multi-faceted implications on your physical/mental/spiritual/social/and soul wellness.