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In an era where political upheaval appears to be the norm, a growing body of research suggests that this environment is taking a significant toll on mental health. An alarming survey conducted between 2017 and 2020 highlighted a troubling correlation between political stress and various mental health issues, including chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, anger, and even suicidal thoughts. As the notion of ‘political depression’ gains traction, therapists report an increasing number of clients seeking help for the emotional fallout of our turbulent political landscape.
The Emergence of Political Depression
Rebecca McFaul, a music professor based in Logan, Utah, embodies the emotional strain many are feeling. On a bleak January morning, she found herself overwhelmed with a sense of dread and helplessness, exacerbated by the news of troubling events occurring far away, including the detention of children and the violence directed at activists. “This is seismic. This is just all upside down,” McFaul reflected, expressing the deep-seated anger that has emerged from witnessing societal injustices.
The term ‘political depression,’ as articulated by queer scholar Ann Cvetkovitch, describes a state of despair that arises not from personal circumstances but from the external chaos of the world. This form of depression is rooted in the sense that traditional modes of political engagement are failing to address the issues at hand, leaving individuals feeling powerless.
The Therapist’s Response to Political Stress
The mental health profession is beginning to grapple with the realities of political stress. A significant number of therapists, approximately two-thirds according to a 2024 LifeStance Health survey, report discussing political matters during sessions. Following the 2024 elections, platforms like Zocdoc and Spring Health noted a marked increase in mental health appointments, indicative of the rising demand for support amid political turmoil.
Brett Ford, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Toronto, posits that the current political climate has become a chronic source of stress. This type of stress is particularly challenging as it lacks clear endpoints and often elicits pervasive negative emotions. Ford advocates for strategies that allow individuals to maintain their mental health while remaining engaged in activism and community efforts.
Finding Agency in Despair
While the emotional burden of political distress is undeniable, experts suggest that acknowledging these feelings can serve as a catalyst for political engagement. Negative emotions, such as anger and frustration, can motivate action, leading individuals to volunteer, protest, and advocate for change. Ford emphasises the importance of harnessing these emotions constructively, encouraging individuals to connect with their communities.
Therapists like Shahem Mclaurin, who integrates political realities into his practice, view discussions on societal issues as essential. He argues that it is unrealistic to ignore the impact of the broader political climate on individual mental health. Mclaurin’s approach involves validating clients’ feelings and encouraging them to channel their frustrations into collective action, thereby fostering a sense of agency and hope.
Community as a Source of Strength
The importance of community support cannot be understated in combating feelings of political despair. McFaul and her husband, physics professor Rob Davies, seek to inspire their students through artistic collaboration, utilising performances to raise awareness about critical global issues. Their efforts serve not only to educate but also to create a shared space for processing collective grief and frustration.
Cvetkovitch’s initiatives, such as public support groups and playful events like the International Day of the Politically Depressed, highlight the necessity of communal spaces where individuals can express their feelings and find solace in shared experiences. The goal here is not merely to cope but to recognise that political awareness and collective action can provide a pathway to reclaiming agency.
Why it Matters
The rising phenomenon of political depression underscores a critical intersection between mental health and societal well-being. As political turbulence continues to shape our lives, understanding its impact on mental health is paramount. For individuals grappling with the weight of despair, the path to resilience lies in fostering connections—both personal and communal. By confronting political realities and advocating for change, individuals can transform their feelings of helplessness into collective action, ultimately paving the way for a healthier society.
