aFollowing Donald Trump’s victory in this week’s US presidential election, Briefing session briefly reappeared in the “Most Popular Topics” section. mental health foundation Website: “Tips for looking after your mental health during traumatic global events.”
This briefing has been commonly read during times of war, conflict, violence, and social tension, but at a time when President Trump’s victory has left many people deeply discouraged and politically uneasy, people are once again using the advice. I turned to this briefing to find out.
“This is a difficult and intense moment for many people. Anxiety is not an irrational reaction and you shouldn’t get depressed just because you’re worried,” says Lee Knifton, director of the Mental Health Foundation.
The potential changes brought about by Trump’s inauguration (economic and social upheaval, threats to human rights, the prospect of racial tensions) could create or exacerbate feelings of anxiety, foreboding, and loss of control. There is a gender.
Watching traumatic world events unfold that actually causes or portends harm or suffering to ourselves, our loved ones, or others, even if we are not directly involved. , the foundation says, can affect our mental health.
After the initial shock and despair, it’s worth stopping to reflect and see if your perspective settles, the magazine says. Try to accept events that are outside of your control or influence. “Time is of the essence, and it’s useful to see how things land,” Knifton said.
No matter how helpless it may seem, there are ways to cope with persistent feelings of depression, the foundation says. One strategy is to limit your news consumption and reduce your social media use, especially if you’re feeling down. Avoid long scrolling sessions.
Another strategy is to find ways to connect and engage with others. Don’t bottle things up and remember that many others share your feelings. Volunteering and activism is a practical way of gaining agency and self-worth, often expressed as a desire to make a difference.
The beneficial effects of volunteering on mental health are well documented. a 2023 survey According to the National Council of Volunteer Organizations, 75% of respondents report that volunteering is good for their mental health and well-being.
Nine out of 10 respondents said they felt like they were making a difference by volunteering with charities, community organizations, schools and civic organizations. 74% said they had more positive contact with people from different backgrounds, and 68% said they felt less socially isolated.
Participating in political and civic activities can alleviate feelings of having no voice or little control. The foundation recommends seeking involvement with political, civic, and social organizations, as well as seeking out public events and forums.
Participate in local civic activities
Politicians and activists often say that their work was inspired by local injustices they encountered in their own lives or neighborhoods. This includes campaigning against school and library closures, opposing controversial planning decisions, and proactively establishing services where none exist, such as self-help groups for parents and sports teams for children. It is possible to do so.
volunteer activities
Charities often seek the expertise of volunteers. Participate in volunteer activities is a national charity that provides a range of opportunities for people with professional and technical skills such as finance, law, IT, construction work, teaching and cooking, as well as a wide range of goodwill volunteering from local communities. It is connected with. Groups to food banks and hospices.
Political, social and environmental activities
Joining a local political party or activist group provides an opportunity to discuss and debate pressing local and international issues. You may be given a voice in the formulation of local and national policies, and the opportunity to make your point heard through elected roles, marches, demonstrations, and petitions. Donating financially to a good cause near you is another way to show solidarity.
