Coping Through Political Turmoil: A Trauma-Informed Perspective
The aftermath of any election can be a time of heightened emotions, uncertainty, and anxiety, particularly for those whose rights and communities are under threat. Whether you voted or not, it’s essential to recognize the emotional impact these events can have, especially in marginalized communities. From a trauma-informed perspective rooted in anti-bigotry, here I will explore ways to cope after the elections, emphasizing community, education, and empowerment.
Understanding the Ecosystem of Trauma
Trauma does not exist in a vacuum; it is interconnected with various social, political, and environmental factors. An ecosystems perspective recognizes that individuals are part of larger systems—families, communities, and societies—that shape their experiences. This holistic approach can help us understand how political events influence mental health and community well-being.
Events like elections tend to exacerbate any issues people already have in their daily lives. It makes sense that many have reported increased anxiety with cases of politically motivated violence and hate starting to roll through the news cycle, the possibility of some basic rights being on the line, and the normalization of behavior that for a time used to be unacceptable. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to understand that events happening in our macro system can still be traumatizing and that we need to take action individually and within our communities to ensure we do not fall into despair.
Coping Strategies:
Building Community Resilience
Connect with Community: One of the most powerful ways to cope with the stress of post-election and political uncertainty is to strengthen your connections with your community. Reach out to friends, family, and local organizations that share your values. Organizing or participating in community gatherings can create a sense of belonging and solidarity and engaging with others who share your concerns can foster resilience and encourage much needed collective action.
Engage in Collective Learning: Take this time to educate yourself and others about local issues and rights. Research your rights regarding voting, housing, employment, and other critical areas. Understanding the laws and resources available in your state can empower you and your community to advocate effectively. This can look like hosting or attending workshops that focus on civic education and community organizing, joining online groups for your local community, and allowing for open political dialogue in our daily lives.
Knowledge is a vital tool for combating oppression and fostering equity, not talking about politics that affect all of us out of fear of “fall outs” or fear of conflict is much more detrimental to our communities than maintaining a line of communication. However, it’s important to keep our safety in mind when engaging in these discussions, even with those closest to us. If we feel that our nervous system is activated, we can take a moment to observe and retreat to a more grounding space if needed.
Which Brings Us To- Create Safe Spaces for Dialogue: Foster environments where people can express their feelings, fears, and hopes. This might involve hosting open forums, support groups, or informal meet-ups where community members can share their experiences and perspectives. Ensure these spaces are welcoming and inclusive, encouraging participation from all voices, especially those that are often marginalized while keeping rules around basic human respect.
Building community can help us feel more connected and less hopeless.
Prioritizing Mental and Emotional Health
Practice Self-Care: Amidst the turmoil, prioritize self-care. This can include activities that promote mental well-being, such as mindfulness, journaling, or engaging in creative outlets. Recognize that it’s okay to take breaks from news and social media, allowing yourself the space to recharge.
Seek Support: If feelings of anxiety or distress become overwhelming, consider seeking professional support. Look for therapists or counselors who have a trauma-informed approach and understand the specific challenges faced by marginalized communities. Many organizations offer sliding scale fees or community support services. If you’re interested in therapy services with me, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Emphasize Intersectionality: Acknowledge that experiences of trauma and resilience are not uniform; they vary based on identity, including race, gender, sexuality, and socioeconomic status. Emphasizing an intersectional approach helps ensure that all voices are heard and valued in any political discourse.
Support groups, meetups, and even book clubs with like-minded folks can help us feel supported and involved in our community.
Advocacy and Action
Engage in Local Advocacy: Get involved in local advocacy efforts focused on protecting and promoting civil rights. This could involve volunteering for organizations that align with your values, participating in peaceful protests, or engaging in grassroots campaigns that seek to uphold justice and equity.
Support Social Justice Initiatives: Join or support initiatives that challenge systemic oppression and promote inclusivity. This can include everything from supporting local businesses owned by marginalized individuals to participating in educational campaigns that raise awareness about bigotry and discrimination.
Stay Informed and Involved: Continue to follow local and national issues, not just during election cycles. Staying informed about legislation, local governance, and community needs allows you to respond effectively and advocate for necessary changes. I recommend grounding before and after doing this work of self-educating, which can help us process any information we need to.
In Conclusion: Hope and Resilience
Coping during political turmoil is about more than individual well-being; it’s about fostering community resilience and creating spaces of support and empowerment, THAT is the message I want to make sure you can leave with after reading this article. I hope can recognize the interconnectedness of our experiences and work collectively toward healing and justice. Together, I believe we can build a future rooted in inclusivity, respect, and the unwavering belief that every voice matters. Let’s move forward, not just to cope, but to thrive in our shared journey toward a more equitable world.
