Note about Halloween (not related to political trauma):

Special note: As Halloween approaches, I want to remind everyone of what the blue and teal pumpkins represent. If a trick-or-treater comes to your door with a blue pumpkin, please know it represents the carrier is on the autism spectrum and they may not be able to say “trick or treat” or “thank you”. The teal pumpkin represents that the carrier has food allergies. If you have a teal pumpkin out the trick or treater will know you have nonfood options for them to choose. Happy haunting!

This month I want to discuss political trauma. As the election nears, we are all experiencing some kind of distress whether it is being bombarded with political ads, misinformation, amped up hatred on social media, or even not feeling safe in our own communities. It can be especially difficult if our political views differ from our family and friends.
There is an excellent article on the signs of political trauma that can be found here: https://www.ourmental.health/trauma/14-signs-you-may-be-experiencing-political-trauma#:~:text=Discover%2014%20key%20signs%20that%20indicate%20you%20may%20be%20experiencing

14 Signs You May Be Experiencing Political Trauma

Do any of these apply to you in relation to experiencing political trauma?

The article lists 14 signs you may be experiencing political trauma:
1. Constant feeling of being on edge
2. Difficulty trusting political leaders
3. Increased anxiety during news coverage
4. Feeling powerless to affect change
5. Avoidance of political discussions
6. Difficulty sleeping due to stress
7. Persistent feelings of anger or frustration
8. Heightened sensitivity to political events
9. Physical symptoms like headaches and fatigue
10. Estrangement from friends or family over political views
11. Intrusive thoughts about political scenarios
12. Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
13. Emotional numbness or detachment
14. Increased use of substances to cope

If you are experiencing any of these signs reach out to a mental health therapist for help. A therapist’s office is a safe space to discuss how you are feeling; the therapist is an unbiased ear. If you ever feel not safe discussing any topic it is OK to seek a different therapist. Political discussions have traditionally been taboo but we need to be talking about how current day politics are affecting our mental health. A common discussion clients have in my office are fears for safety due to the political climate; work with your therapist to develop a plan for safety if you are feeling this way.

Jen’s suggestions on dealing with political trauma…

It is important to be aware of what is happening around us and not take a “head in the sand” approach. However, my suggestion is to limit exposure to political discourse by reducing the amount of time you watch or listen to the news, gently change topics when friends or co-workers discuss politics, and find an opportunity to contribute to a cause you are passionate about. This boosts feeling that you are making a positive change.