10 Coping Strategies for Managing Post-Inaugural Stress
10 Coping Strategies for Managing Post-Inaugural Stress
- posted: Feb. 14, 2025
In the days following the recent transition in political leadership, many of us may be struggling with feelings of depression and anxiety as we collectively move through this period of change together. Although transition in political leadership is one of the cornerstones of our nation's democracy, the tone of recent political rhetoric may leave many of us experiencing profound stress, fear, and disenfranchisement, while others may be pleased with recent policy changes. As we work through new ways to manage the uncertainty of current times, the obstacles to daily living may seem quite frankly overwhelming. Despite the turbulent nature of current national and world events, I believe the human spirit is resilient and with intention, we can choose to prioritize wellness. It is my hope that sharing the following 10 coping strategies can help provide some ease in managing mental health during these difficult times.
1. Limit social media consumption. We do not need to deep dive into other people’s fears and anxieties each day online. Before using social media, do a mindfulness check-in to assess if this is a good choice for how you are feeling at the moment.
2. Limit news consumption to 1x per week from a reliable source if possible. This is enough to stay informed of world events without absorbing the continuous doom and gloom news outlets can often project.
3. Connect with friends and important people in your life. This could look like making a phone call, sharing a meal, or grabbing coffee. The more connected you feel often the less anxious you feel.
4. Engage in hobbies you enjoy, and practice gratitude for the small joys you experience each day.
5. Take part in acts of kindness or meaningful ways you can help support others who are directly affected by policy changes.
6. Remember our collective resilience. Many of us have lived through opposing political leadership changes before as well as a worldwide pandemic. Find ways to connect with others and support causes that are meaningful to you.
7. Engage in a daily mindfulness activity that feels grounding. This can look like meditation, breathwork, yoga, or engaging in a spiritual practice.
8. Spend time with a pet.
9. Spend time in nature, take a walk, dance, or engage in exercise you enjoy.
10. Rinse and repeat. Add new insights and coping strategies as you navigate this new environment.
Remember you are not alone. Feel free to share this with friends, family or any person that might find this helpful.
10 Coping Strategies for Managing Post-Inaugural Stress
- posted: Feb. 14, 2025
In the days following the recent transition in political leadership, many of us may be struggling with feelings of depression and anxiety as we collectively move through this period of change together. Although transition in political leadership is one of the cornerstones of our nation's democracy, the tone of recent political rhetoric may leave many of us experiencing profound stress, fear, and disenfranchisement, while others may be pleased with recent policy changes. As we work through new ways to manage the uncertainty of current times, the obstacles to daily living may seem quite frankly overwhelming. Despite the turbulent nature of current national and world events, I believe the human spirit is resilient and with intention, we can choose to prioritize wellness. It is my hope that sharing the following 10 coping strategies can help provide some ease in managing mental health during these difficult times.
1. Limit social media consumption. We do not need to deep dive into other people’s fears and anxieties each day online. Before using social media, do a mindfulness check-in to assess if this is a good choice for how you are feeling at the moment.
2. Limit news consumption to 1x per week from a reliable source if possible. This is enough to stay informed of world events without absorbing the continuous doom and gloom news outlets can often project.
3. Connect with friends and important people in your life. This could look like making a phone call, sharing a meal, or grabbing coffee. The more connected you feel often the less anxious you feel.
4. Engage in hobbies you enjoy, and practice gratitude for the small joys you experience each day.
5. Take part in acts of kindness or meaningful ways you can help support others who are directly affected by policy changes.
6. Remember our collective resilience. Many of us have lived through opposing political leadership changes before as well as a worldwide pandemic. Find ways to connect with others and support causes that are meaningful to you.
7. Engage in a daily mindfulness activity that feels grounding. This can look like meditation, breathwork, yoga, or engaging in a spiritual practice.
8. Spend time with a pet.
9. Spend time in nature, take a walk, dance, or engage in exercise you enjoy.
10. Rinse and repeat. Add new insights and coping strategies as you navigate this new environment.
Remember you are not alone. Feel free to share this with friends, family or any person that might find this helpful.