
Politics and Your Mental Health
Feb 03, 2025
There is no way around it, whether you are watching the news, scrolling social media, or even just walking through the grocery store, we are constantly being inundated with breaking news stories, political conversations, and challenging topics. The CDC reports that anxiety levels are increasing and the majority of adults (77%) report that the future of the nation is a significant source of stress.
Studies show politics can have a direct impact on mental health. This often comes from feeling out of control and uncertain about the future. As a result, we see increased levels of depression, anxiety, loss of sleep, being quicker to anger, as well as the social strain on relationships and social interactions – friends, family, and co-workers. These stresses can also manifest physically through things like increased blood pressure, weight changes, and increased substance use, as reported by a recent University of Michigan article on political stress.
To combat the mental health challenges you may be feeling at this time, FamilyMeans Therapists encourage you to get back to basics. Get enough sleep, eat healthy, exercise daily, get outside, listen to music, interact with people who bring you joy, participate in activities, and limit the amount of news and social media you consume. Stay informed through reliable sources and engage in positive activities such as community involvement, volunteering in your passion areas, and voting. Take one day at a time. These tips may seem simple, yet they work.
If you find yourself feeling stressed or struggling in everyday life, even after implementing these ideas, seek help. Our clinicians at FamilyMeans can help to manage and reduce these feelings. Reach out today by calling 651-439-4840 or by clicking the button below to make an appointment.