Learn how to manage political anxiety during election season with tips on coping strategies, navigating political conversations, and maintaining relationships. Hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson, the podcast provides valuable insights on dealing with the stress of political news and finding inner balance.
Managing political anxiety involves limiting news exposure and practicing self-care.
Navigating political discussions requires staying calm, using 'I' statements, and finding common ground.
Deep dives
Understanding Political Anxiety
Political anxiety refers to anxiety that arises from concerns and stress related to political events, issues, or developments. Common symptoms include increased worry, feelings of helplessness, fear and uncertainty, physical symptoms, irritability, avoidance, and obsessive consumption of news. Coping strategies include limiting exposure to news and social media, practicing self-care, setting boundaries in conversations, engaging in positive actions, and seeking professional help if necessary.
Navigating Political Discussions
Navigating political discussions can be challenging, especially when there are differing views and strong emotions involved. Tips include choosing the right time and place, staying calm and respectful, practicing active listening, using 'I' statements, setting boundaries, finding common ground, staying informed, using humor when appropriate, agreeing to disagree, focusing on relationships, knowing when to walk away, and following up to clarify positions or feelings.
Maintaining Healthy Relationships
When engaging in political discussions within personal relationships, it is important to prioritize maintaining healthy relationships. This can be achieved by agreeing to disagree, focusing on love and connection, engaging in non-political activities or conversations, and knowing when to disengage politely. Prioritizing healthy relationships may lead to understanding and potential movement over time.