Anticipating the 2025 Inauguration
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The Political Climate and Mental Health
As the political landscape continues to shift in the United States, it has become increasingly clear that the state of political affairs can take a significant toll on mental health. With each election cycle, the emotional weight of political outcomes affects millions of Americans, who may experience stress, anxiety, and even feelings of hopelessness.
In particular, the transition to a new presidency or the looming reality of contentious policies can create a sense of uncertainty that negatively impacts people’s mental health. As the U.S. prepares for a new phase under the leadership of President Donald Trump, many are grappling with the emotional consequences of this political environment. For marginalized groups, there are heightened fears around issues such as mass deportations and limitations to gender-affirming care. For others, the general divisiveness within the political sphere contributes to feelings of distress, heightening anxiety in both the short and long term.
Research supports the notion that prolonged exposure to political stress — whether through media consumption, political engagement, or societal division — can contribute to chronic emotional and physical distress. In the following paragraphs, we’ll examine the profound psychological impact of politics, highlighting studies on political stress, the role of media, and offer coping strategies for managing anxiety during politically charged times.
The Psychological Impact of Consuming Political News
Doom-scrolling is at an all time high –– Americans are increasingly consuming political news through a variety of platforms, especially social media, which can have an amplifying effect on anxiety and stress. Research by Kevin B. Smith, a political science professor at the University of Nebraska, revealed that around 40% of Americans identify politics as a significant source of stress in their lives. The constant bombardment of political content, particularly during times of heightened tension such as an election cycle or presidential transition, can create an environment of constant unease.
Moreover, exposure to opposing political views, especially when framed in divisive and combative rhetoric, can intensify feelings of distress. According to Smith’s study, approximately 5% of Americans have reported considering suicide due to the political climate. While this figure may initially seem staggering, it has been confirmed through multiple surveys, underscoring the severe psychological toll that politics can have on individuals, particularly those who feel marginalized or threatened by policy changes.
As political discourse becomes more polarized, even individuals who are not deeply politically engaged find themselves affected by the pervasive atmosphere of tension. Smith’s research indicates that even those who follow politics casually can experience significant mental health impacts due to what he describes as the “background noise” of hatred, chaos, and dysfunction that characterizes political life today in America. This continual exposure can cause emotional fatigue, difficulty focusing, and a general sense of unease.
The Psychology of Political Isolation
The relationship between political views and mental health is multifaceted. When people engage in political discussions or debates — whether at the dinner table or online —tensions can escalate quickly, leading to negative emotional reactions such as anger, frustration, and anxiety. Engaging in these heated conversations, especially when they become more polarized, can trigger feelings of isolation or hopelessness, particularly for those whose political views are not shared by the majority of those around them. It can create a sense of isolation.
A study published by the American Psychological Association suggests that emotional regulation becomes more difficult when people perceive political discussions as threatening. For individuals who feel that their fundamental beliefs are under attack, it can lead to feelings of powerlessness, contributing to long-term emotional distress. For others, the divisiveness inherent in modern political systems can cause physical health issues such as sleep disturbances, muscle tension, and even chronic pain.
Moreover, the political climate can make people feel disconnected from the systems that should ideally represent their needs. This sense of alienation or helplessness can negatively affect mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and even symptoms of post-traumatic stress in cases where people feel personally targeted by political policies.
The Link Between Politics and Suicidal Thoughts
Unfortunately, the psychological toll of political stress has led to more severe consequences for some individuals. Studies show that during periods of intense political upheaval, there is an increase in suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly among those who feel marginalized by the political system. According to Smith’s surveys, around 5% of Americans have reported contemplating suicide due to political developments, with some individuals noting that the divisiveness of political discourse exacerbates existing mental health conditions.
Reports from organizations like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention highlight that political stress can trigger mental health crises, particularly when people perceive a lack of agency or control over their futures.
This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive mental health care during politically charged times, as well as the importance of providing resources and support for those experiencing feelings of hopelessness.
Social Media: A Catalyst for Political Stress
Social media, often the primary source of political news for many Americans, plays a significant role in escalating political stress. Platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, and now Tik Tok have transformed how people interact with political content. While social media offers immediate access to news and opinions, it often fosters an environment where extreme political views are amplified and sensationalized. The result is heightened anxiety for users who are exposed to an unrelenting stream of negative political discourse.
Research has shown that social media platforms are particularly prone to creating echo chambers, where individuals are surrounded by content that reaffirms their pre-existing views. This environment can make political disagreements feel more personal, intensifying feelings of anger or frustration when faced with opposing perspectives. According to the Pew Research Center, 64% of social media users report that political content on these platforms is often overwhelming and emotionally draining.
To manage the stress caused by social media, our experts recommend reducing exposure to political content, taking regular breaks from news consumption, and curating news sources to ensure more balanced, nuanced perspectives. For many, stepping away from social media for periods of time can help reduce the emotional toll of political engagement, providing individuals with the mental space needed to process and heal.
Strategies for Managing Political Stress
Managing political stress requires a combination of personal and community-centered strategies. Clinical psychologist Dr. Rachel Waford from Emory’s Rollins School of Public Health emphasizes the importance of finding tangible ways to engage with life while navigating anxiety. Waford recommends focusing on self-care practices, such as getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, and prioritizing physical activity. Taking time to nurture relationships and engage in activities that bring joy can help alleviate the emotional burden caused by political stress.
For individuals struggling with more significant emotional distress, seeking professional support is crucial. NeuroStim TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) Therapy has shown significant efficacy in alleviating anxiety and depression, particularly in patients who have not responded to traditional forms of treatment. By targeting areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, TMS Therapy offers a non-invasive alternative for those dealing with the mental health effects of chronic depression and anxiety.
8 Ways to Cope
Here are eight science-backed methods, recommended by our experts, to help mitigate the mental health effects of political tensions.
1. Focus on What You Can Control When the world feels unpredictable, it’s empowering to take control of the aspects of your life that you can influence. For some, this might mean getting involved in local activism or supporting a cause that matters. Others might find comfort in establishing a routine for self-care or scheduling regular check-ins with friends. Taking small actions within your control can help restore a sense of stability in uncertain times.
2. Leverage Your Personal Strengths Everyone has unique coping skills that can help in times of stress. Reflecting on what has worked for you in past challenging situations can be a powerful tool.
According to research, coping strategies such as practicing acceptance, using humor, and reframing negative situations are associated with improved mental health outcomes. Leaning on these personal strengths can make the political climate feel more manageable.
3. Be Mindful of Media Consumption It’s natural to want to stay informed about political events, but constant exposure to media — especially through social platforms — can exacerbate feelings of anxiety. While staying knowledgeable may reduce some stress, it’s crucial to avoid the cycle of relentless doomscrolling. Limiting your media intake and creating boundaries around news consumption can help preserve your mental health.
4. Practice Staying Present When political uncertainty triggers anxiety, our minds tend to jump to worst-case scenarios. One effective way to counteract this is through mindfulness practices. Whether through meditation, yoga, or simply taking deep breaths, mindfulness helps you ground yourself in the present moment. This simple intervention can shift your nervous system out of fight-or-flight mode and into a calmer, more focused state.
5. Reevaluate Your Priorities Significant political events often prompt deep reflection. Research indicates that traumatic events, such as those that threaten our health or safety, often lead to significant life changes. Politics, too, can offer a chance to reevaluate your values, relationships, and long-term goals. Use this time to reassess what truly matters and make any adjustments necessary to align your life with your evolving priorities.
6. Acknowledge Grief and Loss The mental health impact of political change can leave us feeling a sense of loss, whether it’s related to a shift in policy or the broader cultural landscape. It’s important to give yourself permission to grieve and process these feelings. Talking with others who share your perspective, seeking guidance from a trusted mentor, or engaging with a mental health professional can help you work through these emotions and move forward.
7. Make Self-Care a Priority In times of political or personal turmoil, self-care often takes a backseat, yet it’s precisely when we need it the most. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, healthy eating, and spending time outdoors all contribute to emotional resilience. By consistently prioritizing these routines, you build a foundation of physical and mental health that strengthens your ability to handle stress.
8. Tap into Your Support Network Strong social connections are fundamental to long-term happiness and well-being. Research shows that relationships — whether with family, friends, or community members — serve as powerful sources of support during tough times. Leaning on your support network during political upheavals can help you feel less isolated and provide the strength needed to navigate uncertainty together.
By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can reduce the mental health impact of politics, foster resilience, and create a healthier mindset even in times of significant change.
Creating a Supportive Environment: Talking About Politics Safely
While disengaging from the political landscape can be beneficial, it is also important to create safe spaces for meaningful, respectful political dialogue. Our experts advocate for fostering curiosity rather than combativeness in political discussions. When we approach political differences with an open mind, we can better understand one another’s perspectives and work toward finding common ground, even in moments of disagreement.
Encouraging empathy and maintaining respect during political conversations can reduce the emotional toll of engaging with opposing views. It is crucial to create environments where individuals feel safe expressing their beliefs without fear of judgment or escalation. By building these supportive spaces, we can mitigate the mental health impact of political engagement and promote healthier, more constructive dialogue.
Prioritizing Mental Health in a Politically Divided World
In a politically charged atmosphere, protecting mental health is more important than ever. The toll of political stress and anxiety is clear, as millions of Americans report suffering from heightened emotional distress during times of political contention.
However, through strategies such as limiting media consumption, engaging in self-care practices, and seeking professional mental health support, individuals can take active steps to protect their mental health. Additionally, fostering open, respectful, political dialogue rooted in empathy and curiosity can help bridge the divides we face today. Prioritizing mental health, especially in times of political uncertainty, is essential for ensuring resilience and well-being in our communities.
Start your journey toward a brighter, more balanced year ahead here.