In today’s world, it can feel like we are constantly surrounded by political news, conflicts, and headlines. Whether it’s through television, social media, or conversations with friends and family, the 24/7 cycle of information is hard to escape. As a therapist, I often see how this constant exposure to political events and news can significantly impact mental health—sometimes in ways we don’t even realize.
The Emotional Toll of Constant News Consumption
Increased Anxiety and Stress: The constant barrage of news can leave us feeling anxious, fearful, and overwhelmed. With breaking news often focusing on conflict, crisis, or changes, it’s easy to feel like the world is out of control. This chronic exposure to stressful news can elevate cortisol levels, leading to increased anxiety and a sense of helplessness.
Polarization and Division: Politics often sparks intense debates, and the divide between opposing viewpoints can feel more pronounced than ever. This polarization can strain relationships, create a sense of “us vs. them,” and contribute to feelings of frustration or alienation. For some, it can lead to feeling betrayed or even social withdrawal, especially if they feel their beliefs are not being respected or understood.
Desensitization or Emotional Exhaustion: Constantly exposure to negative or tragic events in the news can lead to emotional exhaustion. You may find yourself becoming desensitized, difficulties feeling empathy for others, or feeling emotionally numb. This can affect your overall well-being and create a disconnect from the emotions that are essential for healthy connection and function.
Fear of the Future: With the rapid changes and unpredictable nature of political events, many people experience an increased sense of uncertainty about the future. This fear of the unknown can lead to feelings of helplessness or hopelessness, impacting mental health by creating a sense of impending doom or powerlessness.
How to Protect Your Mental Health
While it’s important to stay informed, it’s equally crucial to be mindful of how political and news consumption affects your mental health. Here are a few strategies to help manage the impact:
Limit News Consumption: Set specific times during the day to check the news rather than constantly scrolling. Avoid news consumption first thing in the morning or right before bed to prevent it from affecting your mood or sleep patterns.
Curate Your News Sources: Be mindful of where you're getting your news. Choose credible, balanced sources that prioritize facts over sensationalism. This can help reduce feelings of anxiety and provide a clearer, more accurate view of the world.
Take Social Media Breaks: Social media can amplify negativity and division. Consider taking breaks from social platforms or unfollowing accounts that trigger stress or frustration. Engaging in face-to-face conversations or more positive online communities can help restore balance.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques—such as deep breathing, meditation, or grounding exercises—can help you manage the anxiety or stress triggered by politics and news. These practices bring you back to the present moment and reduce the emotional impact of external events.
Focus on What You Can Control: It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of larger political issues. Instead of fixating on things you cannot control, focus on areas where you can make a difference, whether that’s through volunteering, voting, or simply having constructive conversations with others.
Seek Support: If the political climate is affecting your mental health, it’s okay to talk about it. Reaching out to a therapist can help you process your emotions, build coping strategies, and gain a healthier perspective on the news and political landscape.
Politics and the news can undoubtedly have an impact on our mental health. While staying informed is important, it's essential to recognize when exposure to news is affecting your well-being. By setting boundaries, gaining insight of the effects, and practicing self-care and mindfulness, you can protect your mental health in an often chaotic and divisive world. Remember, your peace of mind matters. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself permission to step back when things feel overwhelming. Taking care of your mental health is an act of self-preservation in a world that often demands our mental and emotional attention.