7 Ways I Protect my Mental Health in this Political Climate

Alright, family. You know I try to avoid controversial topics that could create arguments. While I love for my posts to create a healthy discussion, both within ourselves and with each other, arguing is definitely not something I want. With that said, please be respectful of each other on this post AND other online platforms because things are hard enough. Now, on with the blog!

No matter what side of politics you fall on, there is no denying that we haven’t been able to escape it within the last six months, and politics has only gotten more “in-your-face” in the last month. I don’t know about you all, but I’ve found it incredibly difficult to focus on myself and take care of myself with the constant changes we’re seeing on a weekly, heck, even a daily basis. I found that I was so stressed with juggling how to care for my students and care for my family, and I needed to start implementing practices and routines that would allow me to care for myself amid political stress and chaos. So, if you’re like me, I’d love to offer you some suggestions on how you can protect your mental health.

1. Download Finch

I saw an ad for the app “Finch,” and it was described as, “The Duolingo for your mental health.” Obviously, I had to try it, so on December 30, 2024, I downloaded the app and have been on a 52-day self-care streak ever since. To sum it up quickly, you take care of a virtual pet by taking care of your mental health. You can set goals for yourself and as you complete them, you’re caring for and nurturing your little pet too.

It’s super cool and has allowed me to take responsibility for my mental health from ensuring I say at least one positive thing about myself to making sure I take my daily vitamins. It even offers users the space to reflect and teaches users how to name their emotions. There is a paid version of the app, but I have the free version and have been thoroughly enjoying the benefits all the same. If you’d like to download the app, I recommend giving it a try to see if you like it!

2. Unplug when needed

As changes were happening within the executive branch, I found that I needed to stay in tune with what was happening politically in our country more than ever before. It was important because I knew that there would be changes that impacted me, my loved ones, and even my students. However, in my attempt to stay in the know, I became burned out, depressed, overwhelmed, and anxious very quickly. Frankly, I’m still all of those things. However, now I don’t feel the need to be in the know at all times. I’ve learned to recognize when I’m feeling overwhelmed or anxious and unplug from my phone. I stay off of social media, I don’t respond to group chats that share political news articles, and I am vocal about my inability to participate in conversations about politics with loved ones. I know that I can always check back in and catch up on what I’ve missed once I’m ready to do so.

3. Read

I have always loved to read since I was a little girl. There’s something so beautiful and even magical (don’t laugh! lol) about an author’s ability to transport you into another world that’s completely different from your own. In stressful times like these, I appreciate the opportunity to escape into a different realm and dive into the experiences of other characters. Of course, it’s just temporary, but it relieves so much stress and takes away the pressure that I often feel to be on high alert and, as previously mentioned, stay in the know.

If you’d like to follow my reads on Goodreads, feel free to do so here: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/128098870-jasmine-e. I have been reading some really amazing books lately!

4. Don’t leave comments on social media

Now one thing that is important to remember is that we all have different opinions — we’re not robots. Our various backgrounds, upbringings, and beliefs have shaped the way we think, so we’re not going to agree about everything. Unfortunately, I have seen so many debates in the comments section of social media posts, and it’s just a back-and-forth of insults and negativity. It hurts my heart dearly to see this.

I have been seeing some really dangerous rhetoric online that spreads hate and encourages violence in recent months. This is not okay, regardless of how you were brought up or what beliefs you have. Unfortunately, not everyone believes that. There was a specific news article that was shared online and the comments were anything but friendly. I made a comment encouraging people to have compassion and empathy but was ridiculed, mocked, and dismissed. While this didn’t make me depressed, it certainly left me disappointed and cautious about what I comment on in the future.

5. Color

I know I’m taking it back to elementary school here, but there’s something so relaxing and therapeutic about creating art. Whether that’s painting, coloring, crafting, or anything in between, using your creativity is so relaxing. After a stressful day of indulging in politics to stay informed, I’ll pull out my coloring book and markers, put on an audiobook, album, or a comfort TV show or film, and simply create. After I’m done, I always feel calmer and much more at ease.

I’m still an amateur, so go easy on me, but I’m so excited to show you some of my recent pictures. I’m super proud of them, and this new-found passion for coloring has awakened my inner child in the most beautiful way.

6. Listen to music

There is nothing like jamming out to an album that has no-skippable songs on it or even exploring new artists by diving into their catalog. It’s a fun experience, especially when the songs are relatable or make you feel something. I love all types of music and now that I have a record player, I have been enjoying listening to music and building up my vinyl collection. I also love putting on random playlists on Spotify that match the mood I’m in. If I want to dance or even feel nostalgic, it’s so fun to find music that matches me and enhances what I’m feeling.

Music is such a powerful tool that you can use to your advantage. It’s just like when you hear a baby laughing, you can’t help but smile. There are songs out there for everyone that can cause a similar effect. You just have to find music that makes you smile or feel something positive, and then you’re on the right track toward mental peace.

7. Go outside

It’s so easy to stay cooped up in the house, especially when the temperature is as cold as it is where I am. It’s a heck of a lot easier to stay home under the heat in your comfortable pajamas. However, remember that going outside for more than just heading to work and running errands can do wonders for your mental health. Take a walk under the February sun, even if it’s only for 10 minutes. Being outside can sometimes provide a peaceful environment you didn’t know you needed to quiet your thoughts or even check in with yourself to see how you’re feeling. It sounds silly, but it can be difficult to do this when you’re in the familiarity of your home. Changing up the scenery can surprisingly make all the difference.

“Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” – Henri Nouwen