Mental Wellness for the Culture: Politics and Stress: 14 Interventions for Us
By: Belinda Gordon-Battle, MED, MS, LMHC – Clinical Therapist
Host: Mental Wellness for the Culture
Owner: BGB Counseling Services, LLC
In America, we are less than 100 days away from the 2024 Presidential elections. Ghana is preparing for a December 5th election. Across the globe, politics are discussed among generations of people. Politics can produce stress. A contentious political climate can create tension, anxiety, and conflict in both public discourse and personal relationships. The constant exposure to political news through a 24-hour news cycle and social media can be overwhelming. Additionally, political decisions and policies often lead to uncertainty about the future, affecting individuals’ sense of security and stability.
The personal impact of policies on healthcare, immigration, and education can lead to stress and anxiety. Social conflicts arising from political debates can strain relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Feelings of powerlessness over political outcomes can contribute to a sense of helplessness, while economic concerns related to political decisions can lead to stress about financial stability. Finally, political issues often touch on deeply held beliefs and values, causing significant emotional distress when these are challenged.
Managing stress from politics can be challenging, but several strategies and interventions can help mitigate its effects:
1. Limit News Consumption: Set specific times for checking news updates and avoid constant exposure to distressing political news. Opt for reliable sources and avoid sensationalist media.
2. Mindful Media Consumption: Be intentional about what you read and watch. Balance staying informed with engaging in other activities that bring joy and relaxation.
3. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care routines, including regular exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga.
4. Connect with Supportive Communities: Engage with friends, family, or online communities that offer support. Sharing concerns and experiences can reduce feelings of isolation.
5. Engage in Civic Activities: Taking positive action, such as volunteering or participating in community organizations, can provide a sense of agency and purpose.
6. Set Boundaries in Conversations: Politely set boundaries in political discussions, especially if they become heated or distressing. It’s okay to step back from conversations that negatively impact your mental health.
7. Seek Professional Help: Consider seeking help from a mental health professional if political stressors significantly impact your well-being. Therapy can provide tools to manage stress and anxiety effectively.
8. Practice Gratitude and Positivity: Focus on positive aspects of life and practice gratitude daily. This can shift focus away from negative political stressors and foster a more optimistic outlook.
9. Engage in Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety.
10. Stay Physically Active: Regular physical activity can significantly reduce stress and improve overall mood.
11. Educate Yourself on Coping Mechanisms: Learn about various coping mechanisms, such as cognitive-behavioral strategies, that can help reframe negative thoughts and reduce stress. A licensed mental health professional can assist you.
12. Limit Social Media Use: Social media can be a significant source of political stress. Limiting its use, especially during emotionally charged times, can help reduce stress levels.
13. Find a Creative Outlet: Engaging in creative activities like writing, drawing, or playing music can be therapeutic and help manage stress.
14. Focus on What You Can Control: Identify areas where you have control and focus your energy on making positive changes there, rather than worrying about things beyond your control.
Implementing these strategies can help individuals build resilience and better manage the stress associated with political issues. Individual mental wellness supports community mental wellness and helps our overall progress as brothers and sisters in the world. #justBE open to the process and VOTE!
