Coping with Post-Election Anxiety in the LGBTQIA+ and Trauma Survivor Communities.
Introduction
Elections can stir up a storm of emotions. For many in vulnerable communities, the stakes feel exceptionally high. Concerns about rights, safety, and well-being can feel overwhelming, making this a heavy time for LGBTQIA+ individuals and trauma survivors.
This post offers support for navigating these intense emotions. These strategies aim to help those carrying the weight of uncertainty and vulnerability this election season with self-care, grounding techniques, and meaningful connection.
Understanding Post-Election Anxiety in LGBTQIA+ & Trauma Communities
Political uncertainty can deepen fears of further discrimination, and marginalization can increase, especially for communities that have historically faced oppression. Current political shifts may raise concerns about essential protections, such as access to healthcare, legal rights, and civil liberties. People may worry about whether their same-sex marriages will be upheld, if they will still have access to gender-affirming care and safe reproductive healthcare, or if their communities will experience more violence. Additionally, there are concerns about protecting immigrant communities, among other pressing issues.
As these concerns arise, past traumas may resurface, bringing back memories of previous experiences with abuse, oppression, or violence. The political climate can heighten these emotional responses, sometimes leading to intense fear, anger, and sadness. These reactions are deeply rooted in lived experiences, making post-election periods challenging for many individuals.
Post-Election Self-Care Strategies
Navigating the aftermath of an election can be stressful. Here are some signs that you might be overconsuming media and some supportive tips to help you find your balance.
Emotional Overload: Do you often feel anxious or drained after engaging with the news or social media? You’re not alone in feeling; the news can sometimes be overstimulating and sensationalized.
Difficulty Disconnecting: It can be hard to resist updates, even when you know they’re not good for you. Recognizing this is the first step in changing your behavior.
Sleep Issues: Are you finding it tough to relax or stay asleep? Finding ways to rest are essential for your physical and mental health.
Impact on Daily Life: If you neglect self-care, work, or relationships because of media consumption, it’s time to take a step back and care for yourself.
Steps to Regain Balance
Set Boundaries: Limiting your time on social media and news apps is okay. You deserve moments of peace.
Practice Mindful Consumption: Try focusing on trusted sources and minimizing endless scrolling. Be kind to yourself in your choices.
Prioritize Self-Care: Reconnect with activities that bring you joy and comfort, such as exercising, pursuing a hobby, engaging in creative activities such as drawing and writing, or spending time with friends and loved ones.
Unplug When Needed: To help you feel calm, consider scheduling regular breaks from media and creating tech-free zones.
Volunteer work: Explore opportunities to support causes that resonate with you and contribute to positive change.
Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to connect with affirming communities, trusted friends, support groups, and therapists. It’s vital to have a support system during these times. I have included some resources below. Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. You are not alone. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me for more support.
Resources:
The University of San Francisco's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers resources for managing socio-political stress, emphasizing resilience and self-care strategies.
Do Something offers post-election resources on mental health, self-care, and civic engagement. It includes actionable advice for managing stress during election seasons.
Multiplied By One Org is an international nonprofit organization that offers online support groups for individuals affected by Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), dissociative disorders, and for loved ones of those with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). These groups provide a supportive environment that encourages self-expression, development of coping skills, and mutual understanding.
The LGBT National Help Center offers a 1-on-1 Online Peer Support Chat service, providing confidential support for LGBTQIA+ individuals. This service allows users to connect with trained volunteers who are also members of the LGBTQIA+ community, ensuring understanding and empathy. Discussions can cover a wide range of topics, including coming out, gender and sexuality identities, relationship concerns, bullying, workplace issues, HIV/AIDS anxiety, safer sex information, and suicide.
The New York Lawyers for the Public Interest (NYLPI) provides comprehensive resources to assist nonprofits and individuals in navigating immigration enforcement challenges.
Transgender Day of Visibility (Trans resources)
GLAAD's webpage on Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) provides information about this annual observance, which is held on March 31st. TDOV celebrates the lives and contributions of transgender individuals while raising awareness regarding disproportionate levels of poverty, discrimination, and violence compared to cisgender individuals. The bottom of the webpage includes some valuable resources on trans healthcare, trans youth, political resources, and advancing allyship.
