As a fellow Duty to Warn therapist from 2017 I don't have much to add. I will say that self-care is of vital importance. We are no good to the resistance if we fall prey to anxiety or depression. We are not like soldiers in actual combat where there's no respite during a firefight. No matter how we chose to engage it is beneficial to do something. It could be writing a substack or blog (like I do), commenting online here and elsewhere as a form of participation, givng emotional support to loved one and friends, going to a protest, or becoming poltically engaged at a local level. When you need to do so, take a break. The battle wil still be raging when you return feeling reinviorgated. Hal M. Brown, MSW
I too needed to hear this today. Thank you. Having to deal with the insane amount of injustice and craziness surrounding him and his people is sometimes too much and sets off my anxiety. I actually spent a lot of today NOT talking or thinking about what is happening. It was a needed break. I will definitely utilize some of the suggested tools as we move through this. Thanks again.
I hear you. My anxiety has been peaking since he won. I’ve been employing these tips and really look forward to engaging with more like minded people and hearing what’s helping them and vice versa. Thank you.
In despair after the election, I reflected on what I could do in my own corner of the world (Boulder, CO). I decided to hand knit "Emotional Support Chickens" using my handspun yarn in exchange for any donation of $100 or above (can be cumulative) to any progressive, humane, or environmental cause (anything likely to be targeted by the next administration). Donor sends me a copy of their receipt, and I send them an ESC, shipping on me. So far I've raised close to $4,000 for World Central Kitchen, the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, The Wildlife Sanctuary, and a few humane societies and home food delivery non-profits. It's not a lot but the recipients may appreciate it. I have also made Christmas stockings, and will soon be knitting a badger (yes there is a pattern for one) in the same donation vein. Donors get to request their preferred colors. Doing this, using my skills and a bit of creativity, has lifted my spirits considerably. And the recipients LOVE their chickens.
That's absolutely awesome, Ruth. Thanks for sharing, and congrats on being self-aware of the ripple effect it has - on the recipients, the charities, and on you. Way to go.
So glad to have found this! When I see where I am on my LIFETIME yardstick, I understand that I did what I could do. Now, I have to cherish each day that I have as tomorrow is not given. I cannot give one moment up to not find joy in NOW. I put my trust in Jasmine Crockett and AOC and other fine younger women and men who are in place to do that work. No one can steal your joy unless you offer it up. Life is really so short. Use your magic wand and sprinkle fairy dust everywhere you go. We will!!
Well said, Naomi. On my Bluesky profile, I put: We WILL resist, support each other, AND enjoy life while we do. Very similar to the sentiment you aptly made here. So - we look forward to resisting alongside you and enjoying our lives while we do.
I've been up all night prepping for the first day of spring semester, which work I hadn't finished because I've been so anxious about (see above). You have allowed my stomach muscles to unclench a bit. If I saw one more image of Musk with that poor wrecked toddler on his shoulders, or read one more trump-trash insult about California, I was going to start screaming. This reminds me of the many resources for happiness and calm despite the deep illness we see around us. Thank you. Let's keep us all sane.
Thanks, Arda. "Unclench" is an especially good word. Appreciate the comment and the reference to resources and togetherness - once we summon self-awareness to know what we're feeling, that's how we start to feel better, which makes us and the people around us feel better, and for that matter - makes us better resisters too.
Agreed. Normalization is a betrayal of truth and even of reality, and it's become so widespread. It's one of my triggers too. Welcome. So happy you're here.
This piece is so spot on and the timing couldn’t be more perfect. We are all struggling at this point with how to handle these negative thoughts and emotions during a time of uncertainty going forward. How can we continue to resist and stay positive when the future seems bleak, long and hopeless at times? And at the same time deal with life and all its challenges? Anxiety and stress are very real and ongoing and not likely to abate anytime soon during the next few years, so we must learn ways to adapt and manage if we are to make any real meaningful progress. Thank you both for bringing this issue to the forefront and for offering ways to keep ourselves from getting lost in the darkness and despair, be it from politics or anything else, and makes us feel less alone. We really are stronger together when we are supporting each other. Keep fighting the good fight! Follow you both on Blue Sky. Thank you!
I feel like anxiety is going to increase and we’re going to need to pace ourselves if we’re going to not become exhausted and resist. I’m going to need that support as much as anyone. Good to see you here and hope you attend some chats - when we start them :)
Thanks, Milree. I appreciate your reference of the art - articles in academic pubs or journals don't emphasize imagery, and one of the best parts of this collaboration for me is that Outspoken is such a very talented graphic artist.
Ditto what Chris Anderson said (below). High anxiety today. Not sure what my trigger was, just a build up. In addition to what you mentioned in this issue, I think there's been so much tragedy/loss and sadness to deal with lately. (domestic terrorism on N.O. New Years day, unthinkable devastation from fires in LA-and the cruelty of Trump that may come in response to so many people suffering) I'll be printing these helpful suggestions out.
Unfortunately, too true. So much tragedy to take in, especially for those who have been through truama or have anxiety It reignites it. Also, it’s creates its own anxiety —and regarding Trump, his cruelty is already on full display attacking politicians and denying climate change. So much uncertainty while we know how cruel he is and what may come. Glad you’re here, Linda !
It's a fair point, except that rage is seen as an "in control" emotion, more than an emotion associated with vulnerability. That said, oftentimes rage is put forward to camouflage vulnerability. This particular issue was focused on political anxiety given we're on the cusp of Trump retaking office. We wanted to provide explanations and tips for this moment in time. We look forward to raging alongside you in the future. :) Thanks!
This is exactly what I needed to hear today. I am going through it right now and this really hit home for me.
We get it. We needed to write it and so many of us need support as we go through it.
Ditto!
As a fellow Duty to Warn therapist from 2017 I don't have much to add. I will say that self-care is of vital importance. We are no good to the resistance if we fall prey to anxiety or depression. We are not like soldiers in actual combat where there's no respite during a firefight. No matter how we chose to engage it is beneficial to do something. It could be writing a substack or blog (like I do), commenting online here and elsewhere as a form of participation, givng emotional support to loved one and friends, going to a protest, or becoming poltically engaged at a local level. When you need to do so, take a break. The battle wil still be raging when you return feeling reinviorgated. Hal M. Brown, MSW
Thanks, Hal. Well said, my friend.
I too needed to hear this today. Thank you. Having to deal with the insane amount of injustice and craziness surrounding him and his people is sometimes too much and sets off my anxiety. I actually spent a lot of today NOT talking or thinking about what is happening. It was a needed break. I will definitely utilize some of the suggested tools as we move through this. Thanks again.
I hear you. My anxiety has been peaking since he won. I’ve been employing these tips and really look forward to engaging with more like minded people and hearing what’s helping them and vice versa. Thank you.
In despair after the election, I reflected on what I could do in my own corner of the world (Boulder, CO). I decided to hand knit "Emotional Support Chickens" using my handspun yarn in exchange for any donation of $100 or above (can be cumulative) to any progressive, humane, or environmental cause (anything likely to be targeted by the next administration). Donor sends me a copy of their receipt, and I send them an ESC, shipping on me. So far I've raised close to $4,000 for World Central Kitchen, the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, The Wildlife Sanctuary, and a few humane societies and home food delivery non-profits. It's not a lot but the recipients may appreciate it. I have also made Christmas stockings, and will soon be knitting a badger (yes there is a pattern for one) in the same donation vein. Donors get to request their preferred colors. Doing this, using my skills and a bit of creativity, has lifted my spirits considerably. And the recipients LOVE their chickens.
That's absolutely awesome, Ruth. Thanks for sharing, and congrats on being self-aware of the ripple effect it has - on the recipients, the charities, and on you. Way to go.
This is beautiful, Ruth. Doing for others is healing for all. Thank you for sharing this and you.
This is amazing, Ruth! What a beautiful way to not just be a helper,but to also find the helpers! Love this. You are making a difference! 💙
So glad to have found this! When I see where I am on my LIFETIME yardstick, I understand that I did what I could do. Now, I have to cherish each day that I have as tomorrow is not given. I cannot give one moment up to not find joy in NOW. I put my trust in Jasmine Crockett and AOC and other fine younger women and men who are in place to do that work. No one can steal your joy unless you offer it up. Life is really so short. Use your magic wand and sprinkle fairy dust everywhere you go. We will!!
Well said, Naomi. On my Bluesky profile, I put: We WILL resist, support each other, AND enjoy life while we do. Very similar to the sentiment you aptly made here. So - we look forward to resisting alongside you and enjoying our lives while we do.
I've been up all night prepping for the first day of spring semester, which work I hadn't finished because I've been so anxious about (see above). You have allowed my stomach muscles to unclench a bit. If I saw one more image of Musk with that poor wrecked toddler on his shoulders, or read one more trump-trash insult about California, I was going to start screaming. This reminds me of the many resources for happiness and calm despite the deep illness we see around us. Thank you. Let's keep us all sane.
Thanks, Arda. "Unclench" is an especially good word. Appreciate the comment and the reference to resources and togetherness - once we summon self-awareness to know what we're feeling, that's how we start to feel better, which makes us and the people around us feel better, and for that matter - makes us better resisters too.
Normalization made me cry. Guess I know my trigger. Going to sleep with my tea.
Brand new and happy to be here.
Agreed. Normalization is a betrayal of truth and even of reality, and it's become so widespread. It's one of my triggers too. Welcome. So happy you're here.
I love this article. I feel seen (and more relaxed.)
We see you AND hear you, Tricia. Thanks.
So very pleased it helped. Thank you for being here with us.
Fantastic piece! Right up my alley from my education & career. Definitely subscribing!
Thrilled you’re here, Missy. You’re an invaluable resister and voice on social media. Thank you !
This piece is so spot on and the timing couldn’t be more perfect. We are all struggling at this point with how to handle these negative thoughts and emotions during a time of uncertainty going forward. How can we continue to resist and stay positive when the future seems bleak, long and hopeless at times? And at the same time deal with life and all its challenges? Anxiety and stress are very real and ongoing and not likely to abate anytime soon during the next few years, so we must learn ways to adapt and manage if we are to make any real meaningful progress. Thank you both for bringing this issue to the forefront and for offering ways to keep ourselves from getting lost in the darkness and despair, be it from politics or anything else, and makes us feel less alone. We really are stronger together when we are supporting each other. Keep fighting the good fight! Follow you both on Blue Sky. Thank you!
I feel like anxiety is going to increase and we’re going to need to pace ourselves if we’re going to not become exhausted and resist. I’m going to need that support as much as anyone. Good to see you here and hope you attend some chats - when we start them :)
We really are in this together, Crystal! Glad you are here
Brilliant, thank you. The art is so thoughtful too. So many of us are anxious.
Thanks, Milree. I appreciate your reference of the art - articles in academic pubs or journals don't emphasize imagery, and one of the best parts of this collaboration for me is that Outspoken is such a very talented graphic artist.
Thanks 🤗
Thank you very much
Ditto what Chris Anderson said (below). High anxiety today. Not sure what my trigger was, just a build up. In addition to what you mentioned in this issue, I think there's been so much tragedy/loss and sadness to deal with lately. (domestic terrorism on N.O. New Years day, unthinkable devastation from fires in LA-and the cruelty of Trump that may come in response to so many people suffering) I'll be printing these helpful suggestions out.
Unfortunately, too true. So much tragedy to take in, especially for those who have been through truama or have anxiety It reignites it. Also, it’s creates its own anxiety —and regarding Trump, his cruelty is already on full display attacking politicians and denying climate change. So much uncertainty while we know how cruel he is and what may come. Glad you’re here, Linda !
I think you stepped over the rage part. My personal favorite.
It's a fair point, except that rage is seen as an "in control" emotion, more than an emotion associated with vulnerability. That said, oftentimes rage is put forward to camouflage vulnerability. This particular issue was focused on political anxiety given we're on the cusp of Trump retaking office. We wanted to provide explanations and tips for this moment in time. We look forward to raging alongside you in the future. :) Thanks!
Company is good.
Thank you!
Thank YOU!
So informative and well written, and so on point. The chaos and the lack of accountability is what I struggle with the most. Thank you!
The chaos is maddening and intentionally created. Both glad and sad it resonated with you. Glad you’re here with us, Vivian.
Another excellent article!! I almost wish I was still working so I could share this with my patients.
Thank you for your rational thinking and explanations, interspersed with some much needed cursing 💙
Thanks for the kind words, and you're most f*cking welcome.
Quite the compliment. Thank you. Glad you’re here and looking forward to hearing what you find helpful. 💙