Hey all, Dr. Haynes here. For both therapists and clients, the current political climate feels dark, catastrophic, and foreboding. The rollback of LGBTQ+ rights—especially for trans people—the attack on DEI, and the uncertainty around immigration and marriage equality are more than just policy changes. They’re personal. They create fear, exhaustion, and a sense of instability that seeps into daily life.
As a therapist, I see it in my clients and feel it myself. Holding space for pain while navigating my own emotions and uncertainty isn’t easy. Many of us are grieving, angry, and wondering what comes next as well as what we can do about any of it. Clients are exhausted from the fight for basic dignity, and therapists are struggling with burnout and moral injury as we witness harm being done.
With all that said, it's important that we have a way to take care of ourselves in these times. Here are some practical tips from the Illinois Psychological Association Social Responsibility Section that I hope you will find as useful as I have. Take care of yourself and each other. - LH
