Are you feeling stressed out about the new president since his inauguration? If so, you are not alone. It appears that all the news and social media sites continue to have a lot to say. Chaos from the election seems to have continued for those who did not vote for the current president.
Has this election/inauguration affected your relationships? Several people have mentioned that certain family members are not speaking to one another. I have some couples that are struggling in their relationship because of differences in viewpoints. Hopefully you have been able to work out your differences.
Here are some tips if you are struggling with the current president.
- Remove yourself or limit yourself from social media. Even if you are looking at information from people with your point of view, it will most likely be negative. Continuing to do so will only increase your anger or anxiety. Thus, why do that to yourself?
- Don’t look at newspapers that lean left or right. Gathering more information, or the need to be in the know will only lead to fear and worry. Look for an objective, unbiased news source (perhaps NPR). If you want to look at newspapers, maybe it would help to just read the headlines. Remember, if it isn’t sensationalized, then it isn’t newsworthy.
- If protesting to have your voice heard suits your personality, then do so. Join an organization that helps you. If that is not your style, then donate to organizations that may be suffering due to the new administration.
- Talk calmly with your friends or family members that have a different point of view. Try to understand where they are coming from. I’ve heard people say that they don’t necessarily like the way he behaves, yet voted for him due to their conservative values. These may be people who always vote republican, no matter what.
- Remember that about 50% of the population thought he would be a good candidate. Half of the US would have been upset no matter who won. There most likely would have been just as much chaos with this inauguration if Clinton won.
- Ask yourself how much of this will affect your day-to-day life? For most people the answer is not much, or none at all.
- Practice self-care. Meditate, do yoga, exercise, engage in hobbies. Find something else to take your mind off of politics.
I hope you are not too stressed out about this. I decided to write this as I have several clients who are struggling with this issue or have family members that are struggling. If it is causing chaos in your life or family, therapy can help. Give me a call at 713-304-6554.
Take care,
Debbie Grammas, PhD.
