From an Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) perspective, maintaining your mental health in the face of overwhelming stress involves focusing on what you can control, specifically your relationships and sense of community. Seek out environments where you feel safe and understood. These spaces can buffer against the chaos or stress that comes from external forces like political climates. Prioritize supportive, authentic connections that allow you to express yourself freely.

Also, limit exposure to negative media or messages that inflame feelings of powerlessness. It’s crucial to protect your nervous system from constant triggers, so intentionally choose when and how you engage with the outside world. Redirect your energy toward activities and people that foster calm, connection, and resilience. Remember, it’s about finding ways to stay grounded in the present and prioritizing your well-being amid challenges.

If cutting out media entirely is what helps protect your mental space, it could be a healthy choice, at least for a time. Being selective about when and how you consume news can reduce unnecessary exposure to stress. You might focus on written summaries rather than video or audio content, so you can avoid the more triggering aspects like his voice or face. Curate your social media or news feeds to filter out content that amplifies distress.

Focusing on what you can influence–community efforts, personal goals, or advocacy–can help you feel more empowered. Choose outlets that give you a sense of purpose rather than spiraling into powerlessness. Staying connected to the people and causes that matter to you will help offset the negative noise, keeping you grounded and capable of navigating the overwhelming environment.

This post includes content generated by ChatGPT, a language model developed by OpenAI. The AI-generated content has been reviewed and edited for accuracy and relevance.