Three ways to survive this presidency

President Trump has only been in office for a few months and has caused immense stress for many Americans. From attempting to sign off various executive orders, such as terminating birthright citizenship, to transferring trans women to men's prisons, to freezing federal funds, the U.S. has rapidly changed overnight, and Americans aren’t too happy over the sudden rulings. While many Americans hoped for lower egg prices and cheaper gas, they’ve begun to regret who they voted for. While many folks are disappointed with how the U.S. is currently being handled, they’ve made it their mission to stand up for their country. The number of negative breaking news stories released daily can feel defeating, but instead of sulking in disappointment and anger, here are a few ways to take care of yourself through this challenging time. 

Social Media Detox

Doomscrolling on social media every day to catch up on the latest news can add unnecessary stress to your mental health. While it’s important to stay on top of any changes, taking a break from scrolling can regulate your nervous system. When you continuously have high levels of stress, you won’t be able to sleep properly because you’ll be in a constant fight-or-flight mode. According to the American Psychological Association, your brain and gut can also develop issues, causing bloating and discomfort in your gut, which eventually affects your mood because our brain and gut communicate. Eliminating intense stressors benefits how the body functions. 

Taking a hiatus from your social media can feel like the end of the world, but it’s not, especially if you don’t use it for a short time. Instead of falling down the rabbit hole of our government’s demise, fill that time with something you enjoy doing. Challenge yourself to see how long you can go without scrolling. Once you feel like you’re in a good place to jump back in and get updated with breaking news, use your socials again. However, use them for good. Educate your followers on what’s going on and how they can make a tiny difference, whether it’s signing petitions, reposting informative content, or donating to helpful causes, we can make a difference in our government. 

Spend Time Outside

If you tried breaking up with your social media and it didn’t work, go outside for a few hours. Resisting the urge to scroll is harder when you’re at home with nothing to do and your phone is next to you. Leave your phone at home and go for a long walk at your local park, around your neighborhood, or on a hiking trail. Greet strangers as they walk past you, start a conversation with one of them, count how many animals you see, etc. 

Or, take your phone and listen to a new podcast or audiobook to distract you from the real world. You don’t have to listen to anything related to politics; instead, listen to something light yet meaningful. Memoirs, romcoms, and thrillers are excellent distractions. Put on a true crime podcast or a cheesy romantic book we’ve recommended. Since you’re outside, listen to an education podcast or audiobook about nature. Learn about tree species or wildlife you can encounter in different parts of the world. You’ll have something new to discuss with your friends or family who also need space from the real world. 

Call Your Representatives and Sign Petitions 

Our country may not function without our government system, but it also doesn’t function without the people. The government is here to ensure no single person holds more power than others and to protect its people’s rights, creating a safe environment for their citizens. Our president isn’t making beneficial changes for his citizens, which is causing Congress and the Supreme Court to work extra hard to fight for the people’s rights. The people hold all the power. We can sit and complain about how we don’t like what’s being changed, but the complaining won’t get far unless we put action behind it. While we can’t all march to the White House, we can call our county’s and state’s representatives to get them to make a change for us. Check out House.gov to find out who your representative is, and send them an email or call their office to voice your concerns and demand change. In addition to reaching out to higher-ups, sign petitions that align with your values. Encourage your friends to do the same. Share what you learn on social media with your friends to make them aware of what’s happening and how they can help. We won’t see change until we actively do something to make it happen.