Political Anxiety in Modern Life

Political events in recent years have dominated public consciousness, significantly contributing to heightened stress levels. The relentless barrage of negativity that characterized the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign has given way to a continuous stream of alarming executive orders and headlines that cast doubt on national security and the very foundation of the democratic process. This pervasive atmosphere, exacerbated by the 24-hour news cycle and the omnipresence of social media, has created a climate of anxiety and resentment that permeates everyday life.

The Impact of a Stressful Political Climate

Since November 2016, I have found myself overwhelmed by anxiety and pessimistic thoughts regarding the current political environment. A study conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA) reveals that 57 percent of Americans perceive the political climate as a significant source of stress in their lives. This widespread anxiety is so prevalent that a therapist has even coined the term "headline stress disorder" to describe it. In this essay, I will delve into how the 2016 election campaign, the subsequent administration, and the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh have contributed to my anxiety and explore strategies for mitigating this stress.

Understanding and Addressing Anxiety

Reflecting on the anxiety associated with the current administration, an article in The New York Times Magazine aptly noted, "This is not a nation that has ever been shy about self-diagnosing its jitters." My anxiety often lacks rationality, flitting from one headline to another, making it challenging to focus on any single issue. Many of my worries may not even directly affect me, complicating my ability to prioritize effectively. For instance, I find myself more preoccupied with Russian interference in our elections than with climate change, even though I have more agency to address the latter. The reality is that my anxiety often impedes my ability to recognize where I can make a tangible impact.

A lecture on optimism offered valuable insights into managing stress and pessimism. One of the slides defined optimism as "hopefulness and confidence about the future or the successful outcome of something." Instead of viewing my sadness as a drain on my life, I have learned to harness it as motivation to work toward a brighter future. By writing letters to local representatives, participating in protests, and engaging in demonstrations, I finally feel empowered and effective. Rather than reacting passively to the negativity I encounter, I am actively focusing on the change I can effect. Reframing pessimism into optimism and constructive action has instilled a sense of empowerment, replacing feelings of helplessness.

The Kavanaugh Confirmation and Emotional Resilience

The confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court served as another significant source of stress. During the confirmation process, allegations of sexual assault against Kavanaugh surfaced, leading to a media frenzy. Dr. Christine Blasey Ford bravely testified about her experience, while Kavanaugh vehemently denied the allegations. This period inundated my daily life with news of sexual violence, uncomfortable conversations, and constant updates via social media. My stress levels surged, and I struggled to cope.

In conversations with my mother about my distress, she suggested taking a break from the news. Faced with the choice between staying informed and prioritizing my well-being, I grappled with the notion of rational choice. According to the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, rational choice suggests that individuals have well-ordered preferences and complete information about their options. However, the human brain often processes decisions through a complex interplay of emotions and irrational factors.

The concept of "regret" further complicates decision-making. In a world of limited options, disappointment may arise from unmet high standards. Yet, in a world of limitless choices, the fear of making a wrong decision can lead to anxiety. During the Kavanaugh hearings, I chose to remain engaged, fearing the regret of missing a historic moment. While I cannot definitively say whether this was the right decision, I now recognize the importance of considering my emotional and physical well-being when making choices.

Embracing Growth and Positivity

In navigating these challenging times, I have come to appreciate the personal growth and resilience that anxiety has fostered. In the past, I underestimated my problem-solving abilities and capacity for change. Rather than succumbing to anxiety, I have harnessed it as a catalyst for growth and positive action. By cultivating optimism, working toward a future I envision, and evaluating the rationale behind my choices, I hope to mitigate the stress that has burdened me in recent years. My happiness and desire to stay informed are not mutually exclusive, as my research both inside and outside the classroom confirms. As I leave the voting booth this next week, I do so with a big, hopeful smile, confident in the knowledge that I am actively shaping the future I wish to see.

In conclusion, the political climate of recent years has undoubtedly contributed to heightened stress and anxiety for many individuals, myself included. However, by understanding the underlying causes of this anxiety and adopting strategies to manage it, I have discovered a newfound sense of empowerment and resilience. By reframing pessimism into optimism and actively working toward change, I am better equipped to navigate the complexities of our current times. Through self-reflection and informed decision-making, I have embraced growth and positivity, ultimately finding a path toward a more hopeful and fulfilling future.

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