Surviving The Political Climate

Although we have recently made it through another election, the next one is right around the corner. We are all acutely aware of how charged the political climate is right now. Below are some tips that may help you through it.

• Be mindful – be aware of who you are with and where you are before sharing your views. Talk with people you know you can trust and avoid unneeded arguments with friends and family.
• Take a break – practice turning off the tv and social media, read a book, take a bath, go for a walk.
• Disengage – weigh the consequences of needing to be “right”. Walk away from anyone that is being disrespectful about sharing their views or yours.
•  Get involved – if a particular cause speaks to you, get involved!
•  Be aware – not everyone may share your opinion, so don’t make assumptions.
• Seek support – seek the help of a good therapist if it feels safer to talk with someone neutral.

Above all, I think it’s important to remember we are all more alike than different. Human beings across the globe all experience the same emotions. Compassion and understanding for those who differ from us helps brings us closer and moves us towards closing the gap between our perceived differences.

Written by Nancy Prescott, MS Ed., LPC

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