BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
As political news and debates fill the airwaves, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to avoid the stress that comes with it. For many, the current climate causes increased anxiety and tension, with families and friendships being tested by opposing political beliefs. According to Dr. Michelle Riba, a psychiatrist and member of the University of Michigan Eisenberg Family Depression Center, “Given this political climate, I hear from patients who even say they’re changing plans to avoid meeting with friends or family members who have differing views.”
Riba takes a compassionate and proactive approach to handling politically induced stress, recommending five ways to keep you informed while safeguarding your mental health.
1. Keep track of how much time you spend engaging with political content.
One of the first steps toward reducing political stress is to track how much time you spend reading political news. “Think about how this content makes you feel when you consume it,” Riba tells me. Excessive exposure to political content, whether through news apps, radio discussions, or social media, might make you feel nervous, overwhelmed, or even angry. Riba suggests focusing on credible, fact-based sources and limiting your time on platforms that flood you with trending headlines and heated themes.
Instead of scrolling or turning in at all times of day, try setting aside specific times to monitor the news. Prioritizing quality over quantity in news consumption might help you stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Be mindful of your surroundings when sharing opinions.
Sharing thoughts and discussing political issues can be enjoyable, but it is critical to remember how others may be affected, especially in a mixed environment. Political discussions can occasionally cause unexpected tension, particularly when others are merely trying to enjoy a meal or a social function. “Never make assumptions about other people, even your friends and family,” Riba says. “They might not think or feel the way you do.”
It’s also important to be mindful of any younger or more sensitive family members who may be present. Children, for example, may require assistance in comprehending complex concepts but benefit from balanced, calm discussions. If a family member or friend appears uninterested in political discourse, respect their boundaries and avoid bringing up themes that might make them uncomfortable.
3. Be open to learning about different points of view.
If a political discussion happens, especially in a family or social setting, view it as an opportunity to learn about other people’s points of view. Instead of perceiving disagreements as a source of strife, consider them opportunities to grow. Riba recommends asking inquiries and displaying curiosity. “If you’re not familiar with something brought up, ask questions about it, and where they learned that from or why that’s important to them,” she recommends.
Empathy and actively listening to others can help to alleviate stress and widen your perspective, making political talks feel more like learning experiences rather than disputes.
4. Walk away from conversations when necessary.
If you find yourself in a politically charged or difficult conversation, don’t be afraid to leave. “Maybe there’s dishes that could be washed, or a sports or movie topic you could change the subject to, or you could excuse yourself to go for a walk,” Riba points out. You can politely excuse yourself or redirect the discussion to something more neutral. Taking a mental vacation allows you to refresh and prevent potential confrontation.
Creating mental space from charged conversations can help you feel more balanced and enjoy time with friends and family, even during politically charged situations.
5. Assess your interest in political engagement.
It’s easy to become engrossed in the fast-paced news cycle, but Riba invites individuals to consider their reasons for engaging with political content. “If you want to be politically active or engaged, be proactive,” she urges. Consider why you consume political content, how much you consume, and how it affects your physical and emotional health.
Some people engage in politics for personal or professional reasons, while others do so because they enjoy watching the news in the background. Regardless, keep in mind that social media and news platforms are designed to catch attention, which can sometimes lead to increased stress. While remaining informed is crucial, Riba reminds us that “you need to take care of yourself and your mental health too.”
Practicing self-care in politically charged times
Navigating the news and political debates in today’s world can be difficult, but it is possible to do it in a way that protects your mental health. You can remain informed without having politics affect your well-being by following Dr. Riba’s suggestions to regulate your intake, interact carefully, and take breaks when needed.
Finally, a balanced approach enables you to contribute to civic discourse in ways that are relevant, manageable, and in line with your mental health objectives. Remember that self-care is not about avoiding problems, but about finding healthy methods to remain active and resilient.
