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Are You Suffering with Political Anxiety?
It is almost time for the big election. Potential policy changes, election outcomes, international relations, chaotic political events- it’s been quite a year! How are you feeling? Like a majority of Americans, (as many as two-thirds of us) you may feel anxious or depressed, sad or fearful right now. I generally do not follow politics closely but even I have strong feelings about this election.
Political anxiety is a form of stress that taps into our basic need for stability and security. It is fueled by continuous media coverage, phone calls, political signs, and social media posts. When these fundamental needs feel jeopardized, our bodies and minds react, creating a stress response that’s hard to ignore. We find ourselves catastrophizing the future or indignantly admonishing ‘those people’ on the other side of the ideological spectrum.
Dr. Rick Hanson, author of Resilience puts things in perspective by explaining how to “Take Heart” when riding out a storm. First, he normalizes the feelings of being shocked and disturbed by major events. He suggests, “As best you can, stay with the raw experience, the body sensations, the deep feelings, the stirred up fears and anger and perhaps paralysis… Be mindful of whatever is passing through the big open space of awareness, observing it without being flooded by it.”
Then do the things that help you feel grounded. Take care of your body, prioritize exercise, sleep, nature and meditation. Have courage to take action the best you can. In all of his resilience work, Dr. Hanson teaches mindfulness techniques such as, “Feel the truth of being basically alright right now, in this moment, moment after moment. Take heart in the good that is real.” “Notice the kindness in others, the beauty of a single leaf, the stars that still shine no matter what hides them.”
“The more that events are turbulent, alarming, and beyond your influence, the more important it is to grow stability, safety, and agency inside you and around you.”- Dr. Rick Hanson, author and meditation teacher
Here are some practical tips to survive this election cycle and any possible aftermath: **
- Take a break or at least limit your exposure to the news. I find that reading updates is less triggering to my nervous system than listening or watching the same new cycles.
- Channel your stress and anxiety for the greater good. Figure out ways to use your actions and voice. This blog is the answer to that feeling of hopelessness for me.
- Take care of your nervous system. If you find yourself irritable, jumpy, or short tempered, take some time in nature, exercise and be sure to prioritize your sleep.
- Reach out- Staying connected in meaningful ways is the best medicine to combat anxiety. Send a card, make a meal for a neighbor, or practice a random act of kindness.
- Remember we are all in this together. Train your brain to look for the good in people. You will be happier for it.
And finally, a plea to vote from Tara Brach, Mindfulness teacher and author, “Everything we care about—responding to climate change, violent oppression, war, racial and social injustice, protecting social security, a free independent media—requires that we vote to protect our democracy. May we each feel our care and prayers, and may we act from love.”
**If your anxiety has reached a level where it is difficult to complete your daily activities, please seek expert assistance.
Resources-
https://www.headspace.com/articles/cope-with-politics-stress
Rick Hanson “Take Heart” https://rickhanson.com/take-heart/
Resilience by Dr. Rick Hanson
YouTube: Timeless Heart Wisdom for our Times with Tara Brach & Dan Harris https://www.youtube.com/live/a0ENDckv5z4
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