Enduring Dark Political Times
For so many, this past year has been dominated by political uncertainty, heartbreak for ever-growing list of victims of rising authoritarianism, and cruelty towards those deemed as different. Whether it’s the civil war in Sudan, genocide in Palestine, the scapegoating of immigrants and vulnerable populations in the US, or the dozens of human rights violations across the world, it is fair to say that it is a dark time for so many. Alongside this, costs continue to rise and the access to healthcare and medicine continues to move further out of reach for countless citizens. Put simply, many are feeling unsafe without a clear path towards safety. My goal with this article is to help give some direction for those of us who are feeling especially defeated in such times. In order to do this, I’ll offer some optional tips for caring for yourself and recommended reading.
A Psychologist’s Tips for Enduring
If you connect with what you’ve read so far, I’ll write some paths I would encourage to help provide a sense of direction while enhancing resilience. The fight for human rights is a marathon. It’s important support yourself enough for the journey.
Don’t always trust how you feel
States of high stress can quickly become our normal. For most of us, we say we feel fine if we have a normal stress level. This may cause us to dismiss necessary steps in caring for ourselves.
If the happenings around you would have likely caused great distress a few years ago, assume your body is still stressed even if you don’t feel it. Use some of your coping skills and help your body recover. If you don’t think you have any coping strategies, this article may be of help: Creating a Gameplan for Hard Times: Coping — Minds That Matter
Reflect on what you have the power to change and control
When asked about what we can do, I am often reminded of a quote from the Lord of the Rings. Gandalf shared, “It is the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay, simple acts of love and kindness.” By following this advice and looking for good in the world, you will find it. Seeing the good in others and witnessing the power to make positive changes in the world can sustain us in such times.
Find your community
One of the most debilitating things for anyone is to feel alone. Be careful online. It’s scarily simple to wander into areas that make you think you are the only one who sees the awful things happening. You are not.
Find some things within the world and your life that are moving in a healthier direction
There are no things too big or small to include here. Some examples include growing closer to loved ones or getting stronger at the gym. The goal is to have some rays of light to hold firmly onto.
Calming your nervous system
I’d encourage picking something that sounds like it fits your style. Some options include taking a series of deep breaths upon arriving home each day, spending time outside in nature, and spending time around loved ones who help you feel at peace.
Recommended Reading
Here are some spiritual pick-me-ups. The following three books have been tremendously helpful to me when I have felt disheartened and disconnected from the world. For anyone, these reads can help to remind you of the things in life worth fighting for.
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön
If you’ve struggled with lots of what’s been talked about here, I encourage getting connected with a therapist. If you are located in any of the states posted below, don’t hesitate to reach out to see if we are a good fit to work together. Click here to get connected.
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Written by Dr. Luke Bieber on January 17, 2026.
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