In today’s world, it’s almost impossible to avoid the constant stream of headlines, social media debates, and political commentary. For many, this level of exposure doesn’t just inform—it overwhelms. You might find yourself feeling tense, hopeless, angry, or even fearful after scrolling the news or hearing about the latest political event. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

What you may be experiencing is political anxiety—a growing emotional response to the political climate of your country or the world at large.

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What Is Political Anxiety?

Political anxiety isn’t a formal diagnosis, but it’s a very real and valid experience. It can include:

• Fear about the future based on political leadership or decisions

• Anger or helplessness about injustice, inequality, or policy shifts

• Chronic stress from feeling like things are out of your control

• Difficulty sleeping, concentrating, or staying calm after consuming news

• Avoiding conversations or social situations because of political tension

This kind of anxiety can be especially intense during election seasons, following major Supreme Court decisions, after protests or political violence, or during times of national division.

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Why It Affects Us So Deeply

Politics isn’t just about policies—it affects how we live, work, and feel safe. When the political climate threatens values we hold deeply (e.g., fairness, bodily autonomy, community well-being), it touches something personal. For people from marginalized or vulnerable groups, political decisions can also carry very real and direct consequences.

In other words: your reaction is not just emotional, it’s human.

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What Can Help?

While you might not be able to control the political landscape, you can take care of your mental health. Here are some ways to manage political anxiety:

• Set boundaries with media consumption. You don’t need to read every headline to stay informed. Choose trusted sources, set time limits, and avoid doomscrolling.

• Stay connected to values-based action. Volunteering, voting, or simply having grounded conversations with people you trust can give you a sense of agency.

• Practice emotional regulation. Mindfulness, deep breathing, or therapy can help reduce the physical and mental toll of chronic anxiety.

• Talk about it. Processing your feelings in a supportive space—like therapy or group discussions—can help validate your experience and reduce isolation.