Political stress refers to the anxiety, frustration and emotional exhaustion people experience due to political events, news and debates. Research shows it can lead to loss of sleep, post-traumatic stress disorder and even suicidal thoughts in some individuals.
While general anxiety stems from personal concerns like work, relationships or health, political stress comes from ongoing uncertainty, conflict and a sense of powerlessness over large-scale events.
Our cognitive and emotional systems aren’t designed to handle a constant influx of political threats, yet we’re exposed to them daily. The more we tune in, the more our mental and emotional health deteriorates.
Part of the problem is how our brains are wired. Psychologists call it negativity bias—our tendency to focus on negative events because they signal potential threats. While positive stories may be uplifting, they don’t pose immediate danger, so we pay less attention to them. Many also feel pressure to stay constantly informed, believing that missing an update makes them apathetic or uninformed. But consuming news in moderation is essential for our mental well-being.
The key is setting boundaries. If you find yourself doom-scrolling, limit screen time by setting a timer. Choose a few trusted news sources that offer daily or weekly summaries instead of constantly refreshing your feeds. Being intentional about news consumption can make a huge difference.
Another strategy is to focus your attention. Instead of worrying about everything, pick two or three issues that matter most to you. Pay attention to local politics—municipal and provincial decisions often impact your life more than federal or international ones. Getting involved with an advocacy group, donating or contacting elected officials can provide a sense of control and purpose.
Moderation is essential when it comes to politics. Shutting everything out isn’t the answer, but neither is letting it consume you. By engaging thoughtfully, we can protect ourselves while staying informed. ● Amanda Friesen
