Presidents Day is often seen as a celebration of leadership, democracy, and the ideals upon which the United States was built. But in 2025, it’s impossible to ignore the deep fractures within our nation—the political vitriol, the erosion of institutions, and the uncertainty that weighs heavily on so many. If you’re feeling disillusioned, exhausted, or even fearful for what’s to come, you are not alone. The state of our country impacts our mental health in profound ways, leaving many of us struggling to reconcile hope with reality.
But today, amidst the chaos, I invite you to pause and reflect—not just on the past, but on the present and the future. How do we stay grounded when everything feels unstable? How do we hold onto joy and connection when discrimination, oppression, and division threaten our communities? And perhaps most importantly, how do we reclaim our sense of power and identity in a nation that feels unrecognizable?
The Psychological Toll of Political Chaos
Our nervous systems are not built for constant crisis. Yet, for many, political turmoil and societal upheaval have become daily stressors. Studies show that prolonged exposure to political unrest contributes to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and even trauma responses. Watching institutions struggle, rights being stripped away, and communities under threat can evoke feelings of helplessness and despair.
Many of us are grappling with moral injury—the psychological distress that arises when we witness or experience actions that violate our deeply held values. Whether it’s the dehumanization of marginalized communities, the erosion of democratic principles, or the targeting of vulnerable groups, these events don’t just anger us—they wound us. And these wounds, when unprocessed, can lead to burnout, numbness, and hopelessness.
How to Stay Grounded in the Face of Injustice
When faced with injustice, the instinct may be to either shut down (to protect ourselves emotionally) or to fight relentlessly (to protect others). But neither extreme is sustainable. The path forward requires a balance—a way to stay engaged without losing ourselves in despair. Here’s how:
Honor Your Emotions Without Letting Them Consume You
Feelings of anger, sadness, and fear are normal reactions to oppression and division. Instead of suppressing them or becoming overwhelmed by them, practice mindful awareness. Journaling, therapy, or even speaking with trusted friends can help you process emotions without drowning in them.
Reclaim Joy as a Form of Resistance
Joy is not frivolous; it is essential. Oppressive systems thrive when people are too exhausted to feel hope. Prioritize small moments of happiness—whether it’s laughter with loved ones, time in nature, or creative expression. In dark times, joy is both an act of defiance and an affirmation of life.
Find Your Anchor: What Does Being American Mean to You?
For many, patriotism feels complicated right now. But America has always been more than its institutions—it is its people, its dreams, and its ongoing struggle for justice. Define your own relationship with the country, rooted not in blind allegiance but in the commitment to shaping a better future.
Engage in Meaningful Action Without Overwhelm
Activism doesn’t have to be all-consuming. Small, consistent acts—voting, educating others, supporting local organizations, showing up for those in need—create ripples of change. Pick one or two areas where you can sustainably contribute, rather than trying to take on everything at once.
Build Resilient, Supportive Communities
One of the most damaging aspects of political division is isolation. Find your people. Whether it’s in-person or online, connect with those who share your values and can offer encouragement, wisdom, and solidarity. We are stronger together than we ever could be alone.
The Long-Term Mental Health Impact—and How We Can Heal
The political climate of 2025 will have lasting psychological effects. Children are growing up in an era of heightened fear and instability. Families are being pulled apart. Many are experiencing collective trauma that won’t simply disappear when policies change.
To protect our mental health for the long haul, we must commit to:
Practicing radical self-care (not just bubble baths, but boundaries, rest, and nourishment)
Strengthening emotional resilience (learning how to process, adapt, and maintain hope)
Holding onto our humanity (avoiding dehumanization of those with different beliefs, even as we fight for justice)
Moving Forward: A Call to Action
Presidents Day reminds us of leadership—not just in those who hold office, but in ourselves. Each of us has the ability to lead in our own way—to embody the values we wish to see in our country, to uplift others, and to keep going, even when the road ahead looks bleak.
This moment in history is painful, but it is not the end of the story. Our resilience, our love, and our commitment to justice will outlast the forces that seek to divide us.
So today, take a breath. Feel your feet on the ground. Know that you are not alone. And remember that no matter what happens around us, we still have the power to shape what happens within us.
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