Political anxiety, often triggered by polarizing events, news cycles, or social media, can be managed through a combination of practical strategies and my professional support. Here’s a guide based on my experience:

  1. Limit Media Exposure: Reduce time spent on news and social media. Set specific times to check updates (e.g., 15 minutes daily) to avoid information overload. Curate your feeds to minimize divisive content.
  2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation. Even 5-10 minutes daily can help.
  3. Ground Yourself in the Present: Focus on what you can control. Journaling or listing actionable steps (e.g., voting, volunteering) can shift focus from worry to agency.
  4. Physical Health: Regular exercise, adequate sleep (7-9 hours), and a balanced diet stabilize mood. Activities like yoga or walking can reduce cortisol levels.
  5. Social Support: Talk to trusted friends or family about your feelings, but avoid debates that escalate tension. Support groups or online communities focused on constructive dialogue can also help.
  6. Cognitive Behavioral Strategies: Challenge anxious thoughts by asking, “Is this thought based on evidence?” or “What’s the worst that could happen?” Reframing catastrophic thinking reduces its power.
  7. Professional Help: If anxiety feels overwhelming, consider Aymami Counseling. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is effective for anxiety, helping reframe distorted thoughts.
  8. Engage Constructively: Channel anxiety into action—volunteer, advocate, or educate yourself on issues. This fosters a sense of purpose and control.
  9. Diet: Learn how a proper diet can help optimize your mental health.

When to Seek Help: If anxiety disrupts sleep, work, or relationships for more than two weeks, contact me at (602) 492-6507 for help.