Stephanie Hernandez, LPC
At Gemstone Wellness, we want to acknowledge the heaviness of the world. We are being bombarded with uncertainty, division, and unrest quickly, and it can feel like there’s no escape. As therapists and humans trying to navigate such times, we also understand how overwhelming this must be. I want to remind you that during these times of uncertainty, you can take a step back for your own well-being. Self-care will no longer be necessary during these challenging times; it will become non-negotiable.
There are times when the world around us feels crumbling when we feel like we’re standing at the edge of an emotional cliff. The noise is deafening, the weight of every issue presses down harder each day, and the fear of what’s coming next is constant. Political uncertainty can be one of those moments when it feels like everything you’ve known and trusted is no longer in your control.
In those moments, it’s easy to forget the most important thing: yourself. Your mental health and emotional stability matter deeply. So, let’s talk about why self-care is non-negotiable during times like this.
Political Anxiety is Real, and It’s Heavy
The constant blast of information from the news can have us feeling emotionally drained with increased frustration, tension, and stress. Political anxiety is overwhelming, and it can be heavy on our minds. We may not always know how to process it, and then we are left with emotional discomfort in our bodies.
I want to remind you of something important: what you feel is okay. You are having a normal emotional response to a large amount of stimulus/information in a short period of time. Your feelings are valid, and anxiety, fear, stress, tension, and discomfort are part of the human experience. It’s natural to be affected by what’s happening around us today. Another natural part is the need to protect yourself from it.
It’s also okay to have boundaries between social media and the news. You don’t have to receive every notification, and engaging in every conversation or post is unnecessary. You have a choice: to choose what to absorb and what to leave behind.
Taking Care of Yourself Isn’t Selfish, it’s Essential!
In a world that tells us we need to do more, be more, and fight harder, it’s easy to forget that taking care of yourself is not a luxury. It is a necessity. You cannot pour from an empty cup. If you’re exhausted, emotionally drained, or overwhelmed, it becomes harder to show up for others and yourself. But when you make time to care for your mental health, you renew your strength. You give yourself the clarity to see the world for what it is, and the grace to accept that you don’t need to fix everything all at once.
Self-care might look different for everyone. It could mean quieting your mind through meditation, taking a walk, journaling, or simply resting. It’s whatever helps you feel grounded in the chaos. Remember: you cannot be your best self if you’re constantly running on empty.
- Self-Care Ideas: Click Here
- Caring for Your Mental Health: Click Here
Setting Boundaries is Not Just Healthy, It’s Necessary
With political discussions flooding our conversations, social gatherings can often feel like constant debates. People are tired, hurt, and angry, and they bring that energy with them everywhere they go. But just as you would protect your body from physical harm, you must protect your emotional space. The boundaries you set with other people are for you.
Setting boundaries is an act of self-respect by acknowledging that you deserve peace and a much-needed break in your emotional world. You prioritize your emotional and mental well-being, which sometimes means stepping away from heated conversations, disconnection from social media, and giving yourself a break. Boundaries are the most compassionate gift you can give yourself.
- How to Set Boundaries, Find Peace with Nedra Tawwab-The psychology Podcast: Click Here
You Don’t Have to Carry the Weight of the World Alone
If there’s a moment where the world feels like it’s too much and the emotional weight of it all is starting to feel super heavy, know you are not alone. It is important to remember that while it may feel isolating, others are feeling this uncertainty too, and it’s okay to lean on one another. Human connection, community, is a powerful tool of resistance and connection.
There is power in connection, communication, and community. Talk to someone you feel emotional safety with and you can trust. However, if you need further support, therapy can also be a powerful tool and resource for a safe space to express your emotional discomfort.
- To schedule with a clinician: Click Here
You Are More Resilient Than You Know
It’s easy to feel powerless, lost, and stuck in these times. Don’t forget how resilient you are. Don’t forget how far you have come already and how you’ve made it through hard times before.
Taking care of oneself isn’t about avoiding the world; It’s about giving yourself the tools and time to care for yourself. Self-care is the give you give yourself for grace and compassion, and in times of political uncertainty and high stress, it is not an option; it’s a non-negotiable. Don’t forget to take care of yourself during these times, set boundaries, protect your peace, breathe, and remember that it’s okay to prioritize yourself. When we show up for ourselves, we can show up for others.
Resources
Mental Self-Care
- The Butterfly Hug
- Relaxation Techniques
- Body Scan Meditation
- Mindfulness Meditation
- Calm Breathing Exercise
Emotional Self-care