When Politics Affect Our Peace: Coping with Stress During Uncertain Times
A Season of Change and Challenge
As the clocks turn back, leaves change color, and November settles in, many Pennsylvanians are still feeling the ripple effects of the recent government shutdown. Across the state, millions of individuals and families are expected to go without food stamps this month a crisis that impacts not only financial security but also a person’s mental and emotional wellbeing.
During times of political unrest, it’s common to experience symptoms of stress such as trouble sleeping, irritability, despair, anxiety, or anger. You’re not alone in feeling this way. These are natural human reactions to instability, uncertainty, and feeling powerless over systems that can directly affect our lives.
Understanding Why This Feels So Hard
As a therapist, I know it can be challenging to focus on your mental health if you don’t know how you’ll put food on the table. At Where The Irises Grow Therapy, we understand this.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs reminds us that our basic needs for food, safety, and shelter must be met before we can fully focus on emotional or psychological growth. We want you to know that it’s entirely reasonable to prioritize where your energy goes right now.
Some might be look for positive ways to channel their feelings, fear, frustration into purposeful action, frequently called adaptive coping. Often this can help us feel more grounded and empowered, even during chaos, and simultaneously positively impacting our mental health.
So, Where Do We Start?
Many might consider political or community action as a way to channel their energy and regain a sense of control. Below are steps to guide you through this process.
Identify Your Representatives and Community Leaders
Understanding who represents you is a crucial first step in making your voice heard. You can find your representatives here:
👉 Find Your Representative – U.S. House of Representatives
👉 Find Your Members of Congress
Take time to learn about their positions, especially on the issues you care most about. Remember that awareness can lead to empowerment.
If starting with government representatives feels overwhelming, begin at the local level. Reaching out to local businesses, community leaders, or your mayor are great opportunities.
Clarify Your “Why”
Before reaching out, reflect on why this issue matters to you.
What personal experiences or values connect you to it?
How does your perspective differ from your representatives’?
Take it one step at a time. Write down whatever comes to mind and organize your thoughts as you go. Remind yourself that it doesn’t need to be perfect.
Reach Out in the Way That Feels Right
Once you feel prepared to take the next step, decide how you’d like to make contact. Typically this includes via email, phone, or letter. Express who you are, your stance on the issue, and why it matters to you.
Some encourage focusing time on those you’re hoping to influence, though this can feel challenging or discouraging. Remember: your voice matters, and your story matters. Even if your viewpoint isn’t immediately shared, your story lingers with the potential to influence.
Explore Other Ways to Get Involved
If you’re more hands on, you can look for local protests, advocacy groups, or volunteer opportunities that align with your values:
Supporting Your Mental Health Along the Way
These are unprecedented times. I invite you to pause when you need to and reach out to a therapist or trusted support system if needing additional support. Even micro moments of connection can help rebuild a sense of safety and stability.
At Where The Irises Grow Therapy, we offer a free 15-minute consultation to anyone seeking further support. You don’t have to navigate this alone . We are here to help you find balance and peace in the midst of uncertainty.
➡️ Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation