Study: Politics makes us sick
Hard-core election season is upon us, and it's literally making us sick.
Physically sick. Emotionally sick. Sick.
Kevin Smith, a political scientist with University of Nebraska–Lincoln, has twice measured the effects of politics on the physical, social, mental, and emotional health of Americans. His first survey was taken in 2017 and his second in 2020.
The surveys found that about 40 percent of Americans listed politics as a significant source of stress. About one-fifth to a third of adults (that would be 50 to 85 million people) said politics caused them fatigue, anger, and even triggered compulsive behaviors. About a quarter of Americans have seriously considered moving because of politics. About 5 percent of surveyed Americans said politics was giving them suicidal thoughts.
Quoted in the Washington Post, theologian Russell Moore suggests creating demilitarized zones where relationships are the most important thing and politics don't fly. Even when all parties agree with one another, there is value in not constantly living in rage on your side of the political divide.
Try to expand your vision. It's not one day in November that matters, but months and years. Even if your guy wins, there will be outrages every single day. Do they all really need your attention, or can you skip this one? Maybe focus on the news once a week instead of every day.
Incorporate more music, art, and nature into your life. Laugh at jokes. Take a walk. Kiss your loved ones.
