Politics and Anxiety: Why You're Talking About It in Counselling
- innersojourn
- 15 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Let’s face it: politics used to feel like something that happened “out there.” But now it bombards your social media feeds, your group chats—and yes, even in the therapy room. I've had many clients say, "I never thought I'd talk about politics in counselling, but here I am." And now, as Canadians step up to the voting booth on Monday, many are carrying heavy emotions with them—anxiety, hope, uncertainty, even grief. With the recent shift in leadership has sent a wave of uncertainty rippling far beyond American borders. Sweeping policy changes, abrupt shifts in international relations, and an air of unpredictability have left many Canadians feeling uneasy. As new headlines break daily, many are holding their breath—worried about what these changes might mean for their futures, their security, and their place in a world that feels increasingly unstable.
Add in international conflict, climate change, and news fatigue, and it’s no wonder so many people feel emotionally flooded.
What Political Anxiety Feels Like
Clients often say:
“I check the news first thing in the morning and already feel my chest tighten.”
“I feel powerless—and guilty—for not doing more.”
“I’m grieving the world I thought we lived in.”
“I’m worried about what the future will hold.”
Political anxiety can show up as:
Trouble sleeping or focusing
Physical symptoms like tension, stomach aches, or fatigue
Dread when watching the news
Guilt, helplessness, or rage
A sense of emotional shutdown
You’re not imagining it—these are real reactions to a very real climate of unrest.
5 Ways to Cope with Political Anxiety Without Shutting Down
1. Name It to Tame It
It’s okay to say it out loud: “I’m anxious about what’s happening in the world.” Naming what’s there brings the emotional charge down and gives us clarity.
2. Be Mindful of Media Overload
That doomscrolling habit? It’s keeping your nervous system on high alert. Consider:
Checking the news just once a day (or less)
Curating who you follow online—balance outrage with inspiration
Logging off when your body starts to tighten
3. Do Something Small, But Meaningful
Action soothes anxiety. Maybe it’s voting, donating, having an informed conversation, or even journaling. Small things can reconnect you to your drive system (thanks again, Paul Gilbert).
4. Lean on Your Soothing System
Yes, you have one. It’s the deep exhale after a walk in nature, the comfort of your dog curling beside you, the belly laugh with a friend. It’s not about ignoring the world—it’s about giving your nervous system a safe place to land.
5. Talk About It in Counselling
Yes, we can talk about politics in therapy. Not to debate—but to explore what it’s stirring up for you. Safety, values, grief, past trauma—all of it is welcome.
When Politics Touches Grief, Identity, and Belonging
For many people—especially Indigenous folks, racialized communities, LGBTQ2S+ individuals, immigrants, and those living in poverty—politics isn’t just stressful. It’s personal.
It can stir grief. Fear. Anger. A longing to feel seen and safe.
You’re Not Overreacting. You’re Human.
If you’ve found yourself overwhelmed, tired, angry, or hopeless about the state of the world—you’re not broken. You’re human. These are not easy times, and your reactions make sense.
You don’t need to carry the weight of it alone.
You Deserve Support
At Inner Sojourn, I offer a space where you can show up as you are—anxious, uncertain, and real. Whether your stress is about the world, your relationships, your grief, or just surviving another election cycle, you’re welcome here.
I offer in-person sessions in London, Ontario and virtual sessions across Newfoundland and Labrador.
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