Afollowing the election victory of the President of the United States of Donald Trump this week, the discussion appeared again in the “popular topics” section of the website of the Mental Health Foundation: “Tips for taking care of your mental health during stressful events of the world.”
This short has read well before, in times of war, conflict, violence and social unrest – and people turned to it for advice when Trump’s victory brought a phase of deep despair and political uncertainty to many people.
“These are difficult and stressful times for many people. Worry is not an irrational response, and you should not feel discouraged because of worry,” said Lee Knifton, director of the Mental Health Foundation.
The changes that may be introduced by the Trump presidency – economic and social unrest, threats to human rights, the prospect of racial division – can cause or worsen feelings of anxiety, panic and loss of control.
Even if we are not directly involved, watching traumatic world events unfold that cause real harm or signs of harm or suffering, whether to ourselves, loved ones or complete strangers, can affect our mental health, to say the basics.
It is important to try to pause, reflect and see if the feelings resolve after the initial shock and disappointment. Try to accept that events may be out of your control and influence. “Time is of the essence. “It’s good to see how things go,” said Knifton.
If feelings of hopelessness persist, there are ways to deal with the situation, the foundation says, no matter how useless things may seem. Another strategy is to limit the consumption of news and reduce the use of social media, especially if it puts you in a low mood. Avoid long browsing times.
Another strategy is to find ways to connect and interact with others. Don’t hide things, and remember many others share your feelings. Volunteerism and activism are effective ways to gain a sense of agency and respect, often defined as a desire to make a difference.
The beneficial mental health effects of volunteering are well documented. A 2023 survey conducted by the National Council of Voluntary Organizations found that 75% of respondents reported that volunteering is good for their mental health and well-being.
Nine out of 10 respondents reported that volunteering – with a charity, community group, or school or community center – made them feel like they were making a difference. Seventy-four percent said it brought them into better relationships with people of different backgrounds, and 68% made them feel socially awkward.
Participating in political and social issues can help reduce feelings of having no voice or little control. The foundation encourages exploring the involvement of politics, society or social groups, or looking for social events and discussions.
Get involved in local community affairs
Politicians and activists often say that they are inspired to begin with the injustice they encounter in their lives or in their environment. This could be campaigning against school or library closures, opposing planning decisions, or creating services that already exist, such as parent volunteer groups, or sports clubs. children.
Voluntary
Charities often cry out for the expertise of volunteers. Reach Volunteering is a national charity that offers many opportunities for people with professional and technical skills – be it finance, law, IT, construction work, education or cooking – and connects them and volunteer activities for many good causes, from. local community groups to food stores and hospices.
Political, social and environmental action
Being a member of a local political party or activist group can open up opportunities to discuss and debate local and international issues. It can give you a voice in local or national policy making, and provide opportunities to make your point through selected activities as well as marches, demonstrations and petitions. Donating to good causes close to your heart is another way to show solidarity.
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